Pune: Rikshamitra Prepaid Booth Completes 5000 Trips In 40 Days, Saving ₹16 Lakhs For Citizens
Pune: Rikshamitra Prepaid Booth Completes 5000 Trips In 40 Days, Saving ₹16 Lakhs For Citizens
Pune, India – In a significant milestone, the ‘Rikshamitra’ prepaid rickshaw service at Pune Railway Station has successfully completed 5,000 trips in just 40 days. This initiative has saved an estimated ₹16 lakhs for passengers who previously faced overcharging by local rickshaw drivers.
Passengers arriving at Pune Station often encountered inflated fares, with some rickshaw drivers charging exorbitant rates beyond the standard meter. In response to these growing complaints, the Pune Traffic Police, Railway Department, and Kevolution Technology launched the ‘Rikshamitra’ prepaid rickshaw service, with the support of Minister Chandrakant Dada Patil.
Despite previous challenges, including disruptions caused by local gangs, this initiative has gained widespread acceptance from the public. In just 50 days, around 1,000 rickshaw drivers have registered with the service, offering honest, meter-based fares.
Over 5,000 trips have been completed, providing legitimate earnings of over ₹8 lakh to registered rickshaw drivers. This effort has protected passengers from illegal fare hikes and enhanced safety at the station.
Dr. Keshav Nana Kshirsagar, Chairman of ‘Baghtoy Rikshawwala,’ expressed optimism about the initiative’s continued success, with the potential for it to become a permanent fixture at Pune Station with ongoing police support.
