The mandatory meter use in CNG-run auto-rickshaws in Chittagong city has fallen flat as most of the drivers are not willing to travel abiding by meters, reveals a survey.
Chittagong regional committee of Bangladesh Passenger Welfare Association has conducted the survey.
The survey titled ‘CNG Auto-rickshaw Metre Travelling Observation Programme’ was conducted at five strategic points – Bahadderhat, Shah Amanat Bridge, Kalurghat, Chwakbazar, Laldighir Par – areas of the city.
Mozammel Haque Chowdhury, secretary general of Bangladesh Passenger Welfare Association told the Dhaka Tribune that a 12-member team of the association took part in the observation programme where 362 auto-rickshaw drivers and 384 passengers were interviewed.
As per Bangladesh Road Transport Authority, as many as 13,000 CNG auto-rickshaws are permitted for plying in Chittagong city. However, around 7,000 more CNG auto-rickshaws allegedly ply in the city without registration.
During the survey, it was found that 98% CNG auto-rickshaw drivers go on a contractual basis while 87% demands tips. Eight-five percent drivers refuse to take passengers to their chosen destinations if they are a short way off. Those who agree to travel following meters usually want an additional Tk20 to Tk40.
The commuters travelling short distances are refused by the CNG-run auto-rickshaw drivers. Besides, 33% CNG auto-rickshaws were illegally plying in the city and travelling without installing meters.
During the survey, the commuters said that it was discriminatory to fix same amount of fares in Dhaka and Chittagong. The passengers also demanded refixing the fares without delay.
It may be mentioned that the new fare for CNG-run auto-rickshaws was fixed at Tk40 for the first two kilometres and Tk12 for each additional kilometre. The waiting charge for the CNG-run auto-rickshaws was fixed at Tk2 for per minute.
