Patna: In a bid to streamline auto-rickshaw and e-rickshaw operations and reduce traffic congestion, authorities are planning to introduce route- and zone-based services across Patna. As part of this initiative, 14 designated stands for prepaid and reserved auto-rickshaws will be constructed from Danapur to Patna City.
The proposed stands will be located in high-traffic areas such as Saguna Mod, Gandhi Maidan, Patliputra, Kankarbagh, Patna City, and Digha. The District Transport Office (DTO) and traffic administration are currently identifying suitable locations, with approximately 3,600 autos expected to operate from these stands.
Growing Traffic Congestion and Unsuccessful Measures
Despite repeated efforts by the administration, traffic congestion in Patna continues to worsen as the number of vehicles on the road increases daily. Officials have implemented various measures to tackle the issue, but they have largely been unsuccessful. According to auto unions, the failure to construct proper stands is a key reason behind the persistent traffic problems.
Auto Unions Demand Stand Construction Before Route Permits
Auto union representatives, including Pappu Yadav, Rajkumar Jha, Naveen Mishra, Rajesh Chaudhary, and Ajay Patel, have urged the Transport Department to prioritize the construction of stands before issuing route permits.
Pappu Yadav, president of the Patna District Auto Rickshaw Drivers Union, emphasized that traffic congestion at key intersections would only be resolved if the administration followed through with its promise to build 14 auto stands. He also criticized authorities for implementing traffic control policies without consulting auto drivers or union representatives.
