Kota autos-rickshaws implement standardized fares, no extra charges for luggage

In a significant expansion of the pioneering 'Kota Cares' initiative, auto rickshaw unions of Kota representing over 10,000 drivers have united to introduce reforms to transportation services for students. The announcement comes just weeks after 4,000 hostel owners came together under ‘Kota Cares’ to introduce multiple student-friendly measures, including the elimination of security deposits.

Three Auto rickshaw unions presented their proposal to the district administration with the help of Kota Student Welfare Society. These unions, representing over 10,000 drivers across Kota, have committed to a standardized fare structure, behavioural training programs, and enhanced support systems designed specifically for the city's 1.25 students. The initiative marks the first time in Kota's history that comprehensive transportation guidelines have been collectively established and displayed on all auto rickshaws operating in the city.

“Transportation is the lifeline of our city and often the first experience students have when arriving in Kota,” said Additional District Collector Anil Singhal, who presided over the meeting where the unions presented their proposals. “When auto drivers charge fair rates and provide good service, it creates a positive impression of our city.

The reforms include several first-of-its-kind measures:

Standardized Fare Structure

--Fixed maximum fare of Rs. 20 per kilometer across all auto-rickshaws.

--Minimum fare of Rs. 30 for journeys up to one kilometre.

--Standardized waiting charges of Rs. 50 per hour.

--No additional charges on examination days or for student luggage.

Safety and Support Measures

--Mandatory gatekeeper and behavioral training for all auto drivers.

--Special focus on women auto drivers providing safe transportation for female students.

--Protocol for reporting suspicious activities or student distress situations.

--Continuation of emergency medical transportation services.

Transparency Initiatives

--Fare charts and student guidelines to be prominently displayed in all 10,000 auto rickshaws.

--Information displays at coaching institutes about transportation guidelines.

--Clear protocols for passenger belongings and emergency assistance.

Deputy Superintendent of Traffic Police Ashok Kumar Meena praised the initiative, noting: “Auto rickshaws provide 24-hour service in our city, making them essential to student safety and mobility. This proactive approach by the unions will address multiple challenges at once, and the traffic police stand ready to support both students and drivers in implementing these changes.”

Implementation of the auto-rickshaw reforms will begin immediately, with fare displays and training programs rolling out across the city in the coming days.

About Kota Cares

Launched in December 2024, Kota Cares is a pioneering initiative by the Kota District Administration that brings together all stakeholders in the educational ecosystem to create a more supportive and nurturing environment for students. The program brings together an unprecedented coalition of stakeholders, including local police, government departments, educators, hostel owners, shopkeepers, autorickshaw drivers, students, and their parents, to create a nurturing environment for students.