Patna: Autorickshaw and e-rickshaw operators in Patna have expressed uncertainty over the divisional commissioner’s proposal to divide the city into three operational zones and introduce route-based permits for three-wheelers, saying the move has raised questions over the validity of existing permits and the cost of shifting to the new system.The concerns surfaced a day after a meeting chaired by Patna divisional commissioner Mayank Warwade decided to issue permits based on route-wise carrying capacity, introduce colour-coded operational zones and consider restricting e-rickshaw movement on major roads, including Bailey Road, Fraser Road, Exhibition Road, Atal Path and Ganga Path.Raj Kumar Jha, general secretary of the Bihar State Auto Chalak Sangh, said the union was not opposed to measures aimed at streamlining traffic but wanted clarity on how the proposed system would affect permits already issued for five-year periods. Nearly one lakh drivers are associated with the union, including more than 50,000 auto and e-rickshaw operators in Patna. He said drivers currently pay Rs 1,200 for a five-year contract carriage permit, which allows them to operate on any route.“If drivers are restricted to specific routes, route permits, officially known as stage carriage, will have to be issued. But what will happen to the money already paid for contract carriage permits? Will the new permits be free? There are many unanswered questions,” Jha said.He added that representatives of auto and e-rickshaw operators were not consulted before the proposal was discussed. “Our only request is that if these changes are implemented, drivers should be allowed to operate within zones rather than be confined to a single route,” he said.Warwade said the zoning plan was intended to reduce route overlaps and improve traffic flow. Routes would be grouped into separate colour-coded zones while ensuring passenger connectivity across the city. The proposal also includes a free zone for reserve and prepaid autos.Transport department secretary Raj Kumar said a database of autos and e-rickshaws would be prepared through unions and digitised before the new system is rolled out. The department will also develop software for all districts, following which online applications for permits will be invited.
