Auto drivers flout Covid norms in Pune

At many places, autos were seen plying four to five passengers at a time and risking the lives of passengers

As the city unlocks, and public transport has started service for common people, many auto-rickshaw drivers can be seen flouting Covid-19 norms and plying more passengers.

At many places, autos were seen plying four to five passengers at a time and risking the lives of passengers. (Ravindra Joshi/HT PHOTO)

At many places, autos were seen plying four to five passengers at a time and risking the lives of passengers.

“I have joined the office from last week and now travel by shared auto-rickshaw from Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) bus stand to Yerawada. There is always a risk and many times at least four to five passengers occupy the rickshaw and social distancing norm is flouted,” said Karan Mhatre a passenger.

“The Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML) bus frequency is low. We do not have any other option, but to travel by auto-rickshaw,” said Mhatre.

Another passenger Rasika Mantri said, “I daily travel from Swaragte to Dhayari for work by a shared auto-rickshaw. To save money and time I take a shared auto ride.”

Similar is the situation in all across the city on major routes like Sinhagad road, Katraj to Warje on the bypass highway, Swargate to Hadapsar and Katraj, on the Ahmednagar road and other routes.

“People should not risk their lives unnecessarily and follow all precautions. They should behave responsibly,” said Atul Namekar, secretary of Sinhagad Road - Warje residents association.

“The administration should monitor the situation daily and take action against culprits,” he said.

Rahul Shrirame, deputy commissioner of police (traffic), said, “More than taking strict action against such violators auto drivers and passengers should themselves realise the risk of getting infected and behave responsibly. We will also take a review of these busy roads and accordingly take action against violators.”