Patna: An illegal auto stand has been operating in the parking area of Patna Junction, leading to mounting complaints from passengers about congestion and disorder. The area earmarked for private vehicle parking inside the station premises is reportedly being used by dozens of auto-rickshaws, disrupting the movement of travellers and their vehicles.
Commuters say the situation worsens significantly during peak hours, particularly when trains arrive and depart. The flow of traffic slows to a crawl as auto drivers pick up and drop off passengers directly from the parking zone. The congestion is said to be most severe at night, when the number of auto-rickshaws increases and visibility is reduced.
Passengers allege that despite the existence of a designated auto stand, drivers continue to use the parking area as a makeshift stand. Many have called on the local administration and railway authorities to enforce a clear demarcation between parking facilities and authorised public transport zones to restore order.
Some travellers have also accused prepaid auto drivers of charging arbitrary fares, adding to their frustration. Officials from the Railway Protection Force (RPF) said that enforcement drives are carried out periodically to address irregularities. They indicated that action would be taken against vehicles found illegally stationed in the parking area to ensure smoother traffic flow and prevent inconvenience to passengers.
