Mumbai: For new permits, auto drivers need to install GPS

The state government is likely to ask drivers to display roof-top indicators, identity cards and radio frequency identification tags (RFID) on their vehicles for the passengers’ convenience.

It would be mandatory for new auto permit holders to install Global Positioning System (GPS) or General Packet Radio Service (GPRS).

Along with these, the state government is likely to ask drivers to display roof-top indicators, identity cards and radio frequency identification tags (RFID) on their vehicles for the passengers’ convenience.

RFIDs are swiped at tolls to ascertain the identity of the driver of the vehicle.

For issuing new auto permits, the transport department has adopted some new terms and conditions.

“Most terms and conditions are the same as earlier, but the government will insist on installation of GPS, GPRS and RFID tag. Roof-top Indicators, display cards containing driver’s information and helpline would also need to be displayed, if the regional transport authority insists,” said a trans port official, requesting anonymity as is not authorised to speak to the media.

The earlier conditions required a valid driving license, an auto rickshaw badge and domicile certificate to prove 15 years of stay in Maharashtra. In order to make the permits distribution process transparent, the government has also decided to a adopt lottery system.

As per the government’s decision, over 18,000 new permits will be issued in Mumbai. Over 9,350 will be issued by the Andheri RTO and 8,750 by the Wadala RTO.

“State government decided to issue these permits and adopt a lottery system, for transparent distribution of permits,” said the official.

Last week, the state government decided to revive around 50% of the total 94,400 dormant auto rickshaw permits across the state.

Of those 46,000 permits, 32,000 will be issued for Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) and 14,000 for the rest of the state.