Soon, four-wheeler autos in city

Delhiites could very soon enjoy a ride in four-wheeled small cars that would run as auto-rickshaws. Delhi transport minister Ramakant Goswami said the transport department is contemplating to introduce four-wheeler autos manufactured by Tata Motors.

Delhiites could very soon enjoy a ride in four-wheeled small cars that would run as auto-rickshaws.

HT Image

Delhi transport minister Ramakant Goswami said the transport department is contemplating to introduce four-wheeler autos manufactured by Tata Motors.

"The autos will be safe because they are covered from all sides. Their introduction would also bring some discipline among auto drivers, who otherwise drive rashly. The availability of more passenger vehicles on road will also lead to more competition and incidents of over-charging/not using fare meters, etc., would be minimised," Goswami added.

Transport department officials said once a final approval is given, people with auto-rickshaw permits will be allowed to buy and run these cars. The department has already moved an application in the court to further relax the cap of one lakh on auto-rickshaws.

Officials said companies which have sought bulk permits to run 250 autos under the corporate scheme will be allowed to operate these vehicles. The fare structure will be the same as auto-rickshaws.

Goswami said the department has been asked to study the technical details of four-wheel autos and the feasibility of its running in the Capital and submit the report within two weeks. But sources said the state transport authority has already approved the introduction of such auto-rickshaws.