Outlining congestion concerns, cops look to regulate e-rickshaws

Framing a comprehensive policy to regulate e-rickshaws, the rapidly growing mode of transport, tops the city police’s priority list.

Reports of traffic congestion have prompted officials to launch an awareness drive for drivers of e-rickshaws. Under the campaign, violators will be dealt with sternly and their rickshaws impounded.

The police have been receiving complaints about e-rickshaws being parked in a haphazard manner, stopping at busy points to pick up passengers and contributing to traffic bottlenecks on already congested roads. Their rapidly increasing numbers have turned what was once seen as a convenient and affordable mode of public transport into a significant traffic-management challenge in several parts of the city.

Police Commissioner Harmanbir Singh Gill said the fact that e-rickshaw drivers depended on the vehicles for a livelihood was known to the officials. But violators could not get away that easily, especially when it comes at the cost of traffic discipline and the convenience of commuters.

The police will initially sensitise drivers about traffic rules and the consequences of various violations. He said around five to seven challans were issued daily against e-rickshaw drivers, but enforcement would now be made more systematic. Those continuing to violate the rules despite repeated warnings would face action, including seizure of their vehicles.

The drive is expected to focus particularly on illegal parking, obstruction of traffic and wrong driving.