Patna Authorities Plan Zone-Based System for Autos and E-Rickshaws from April to Ease Traffic

Patna: Authorities in Patna are rolling out a new zone-based system for auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws in an effort to make the city’s transport network safer, more systematic, and free of congestion. The initiative, led by Regional Transport Authority chairman and divisional commissioner Mayank Warwade, aims to streamline vehicle movement and enhance passenger safety.

From April, the city will be divided into three zones—blue, green, and yellow—each with designated routes for auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws. Vehicles will be permitted to operate only within their assigned zone, with applications for permits set to open soon.

To improve monitoring and passenger security, each vehicle will be assigned a QR code, allowing commuters to access details about the driver and vehicle by scanning it. Additionally, specific parking areas will be allocated within each zone, and police stations will be tagged to designated routes for better enforcement.

While the system imposes restrictions on movement, some exemptions have been introduced. Auto-rickshaws booked from railway stations, bus stands, and the airport will be allowed to operate across all three zones. Furthermore, auto drivers traveling for personal reasons—such as dropping children at school or visiting a hospital—can cross zones if they display an ‘ON’ board, but they will not be allowed to pick up or drop off passengers en route.

The move has sparked discussions with auto drivers’ unions, who raised concerns over potential fines if they operate outside their designated zones. Authorities have assured that necessary relaxations will be in place for personal travel.

The zone system will cover the entire municipal corporation area, including Phulwarisharif, Danapur, and Khagaul Nagar Parishad. Approximately 25,000 auto-rickshaws and 10,000 e-rickshaws will be integrated into the new framework, marking a significant shift in Patna’s public transport landscape.