Pune Railway Station’s Pre-Paid Auto Booth On Verge Of Closure Due To Operational Difficulties
The pre-paid auto booth at Pune’s city railway station, reopened recently to protect passengers from fleecing, is now facing closure due to operational difficulties. The booth, operated by the Bagtoy Rickshawaala Union since July 27, has been plagued by issues caused by regular auto drivers at the station.
Keshav Kshirsagar, president of the union, revealed while speaking with media that these drivers have been creating roadblocks, blocking gates and parking lanes, and even poaching passengers on platforms. “We cater to 500-600 passengers daily, but face opposition from non-member auto drivers,” Kshirsagar said.
Passengers have also reported being taken advantage of by these drivers. Santosh pandey, a visitor from kanpur , was charged Rs 450 for a trip to Camp, with the driver claiming no pre-paid system existed at the station.
The union has sought permission to install signages indicating the booth’s location and requested police presence to deter troublemakers. However, authorities have failed to provide adequate support.
Commuters have criticized the booth’s location, suggesting it should be moved to the main gate. Shilpa mathur, a regular commuter, said, “The current location is faulty, making it inaccessible to many.”
Railway authorities have denied any lack of support. It stated that all necessary help to the pre-paid auto booth was provided.
The future of the booth remains uncertain, leaving passengers vulnerable to exploitation. Will the authorities intervene to save the pre-paid auto booth, or will passengers continue to suffer?