Unregistered e-rickshaws pose traffic, safety risks in Phagwara

The rapidly increasing number of e-rickshaws operating on city roads without valid registration or licences has emerged as a serious concern for the authorities in Phagwara. A large number of these vehicles are reportedly plying without proper documentation, route permits, or verified driver credentials, posing challenges to traffic management and law enforcement agencies.

According to officials, the absence of proper records with the Transport Department and the Municipal Corporation Phagwara has made it difficult to monitor the actual number of e-rickshaws operating in the city. Many of these vehicles are seen navigating through congested markets and narrow residential streets, often contributing to traffic bottlenecks and increasing the risk of accidents. Residents have raised concerns over instances of rash and negligent driving, particularly in densely populated localities.

The lack of a comprehensive database has also created hurdles for the police in identifying vehicle owners and drivers in cases involving traffic violations or other unlawful activities. Officials point out that unregistered e-rickshaws can easily evade accountability, making enforcement and investigation more complicated.

Speaking on the issue, SP Phagwara Madhvi Sharma said that the matter is being taken seriously and will be discussed with the municipal authorities to ensure that all e-rickshaws are brought under proper regulation. She clarified that the objective of the police is not to harass genuine drivers who depend on e-rickshaws for their livelihood, but to introduce transparency and accountability in the system.

SP Sharma emphasised that once vehicles are duly registered and drivers possess valid licences and identification documents, the police will be in a better position to take swift and focused action against those misusing e-rickshaws for illegal purposes. She further stated that coordinated efforts between the police, the Transport Department, and the Municipal Corporation are being planned to streamline the registration and verification process.

Traffic Inspector Aman Kumar Daveshwar also highlighted the growing pressure on city roads due to the unchecked increase in e-rickshaws. He noted that regular checking drives will be intensified to verify documents and ensure compliance with traffic norms. Awareness campaigns are also likely to be conducted to educate drivers about safety regulations, road discipline, and the importance of proper registration.

Appealing for cooperation from e-rickshaw operators and the general public, the police authorities reiterated that regulation, not restriction, remains the key objective. Proper documentation and adherence to traffic rules, they said, will not only improve traffic flow but also enhance public safety, ensuring that e-rickshaws continue to function as a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transport without becoming a source of concern for the city.