Patna : A state-wide ban on using auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws for school transport came into effect today, leaving parents scrambling for alternatives and auto unions outraged. While the Bihar transport department says the move is aimed at ensuring children’s safety, families are struggling with the sudden change, and drivers say their livelihoods are at risk.
For thousands of working parents, the decision has thrown morning routines into chaos. Sanjay Kumar, a resident of Patna, described the situation as “extremely difficult.” He said, “Mornings are already hectic, and now I have to take extra time to drop my children off at school. It’s a big challenge for office-goers.”
Sadanand Sharma, another parent, said, “I’ve been waiting for transport for over 30 minutes. Earlier, autos would arrive on time, and children could reach school easily. Now, it’s become a daily struggle. I work a private job, so I can drop them off, but picking them up is another challenge.”
The ban is expected to impact around 4,000 autos and e-rickshaws in Patna alone, with thousands more affected across the state. Parents, particularly those without personal vehicles, are now relying on public transport or are being forced to make long commutes to schools on their own.
Nirmala Devi, a mother of two, said, “Every morning, I prepare lunch for my children, get them ready, and then rush to drop them at school. Now, I have to manage all of this without auto support. The government should have provided an alternative before enforcing the ban.”
Auto Unions Call for Immediate Rollback
While parents struggle with logistics, auto and e-rickshaw drivers face an even bigger crisis. The Patna District Auto Rickshaw Drivers Association has called for a sit-in protest on Wednesday, arguing that the ban puts thousands of drivers out of work.
Association President Pappu Yadav said, “More than 70,000 autos across the state rely on school transport for income. This decision has come without any prior notice, leaving drivers with no alternative livelihood. If the government does not roll back the ban, we will intensify our protest.”
Many drivers say they had already been following safety regulations and limiting the number of children they carried. “Not all autos are unsafe,” said Ramesh Kumar, an auto driver. “Instead of a blanket ban, the administration should have enforced stricter checks and rules.”
Schools and Parents Seek Alternatives
Some schools have backed the decision but acknowledge that it will impact attendance. PK Singh, Principal of Kendriya Vidyalaya Bailey Road, said, “Safety is important, but there should have been more time to adjust. Many autos operate unauthorized under school names, and those should be stopped. But banning all school autos suddenly has put pressure on parents.”
