With the conflict between auto rickshaw unions and drivers on one hand and the commuters on the other increasing, imaginative solutions are being sought.
One such proposal is using electricity-powered auto rickshaws in Mumbai.
Transport analyst Ashok Datar, who has been driving an electric car for the last five years, said electric auto rickshaws will contribute to improving the "noise and air pollution profile" of the city.
"The real long term planning which we should not forget is shifting auto rickshaws to electrical mode. For this, we must ask the manufacturers to make electric auto rickshaws, which should be made tax-free too," Datar suggested.
“In fact, none of the parking restrictions should be imposed on electric rickshaws as they neither cause air pollution nor noise pollution," Datar added.
An official from the state transport department said he was inclined in favour of technologies which help reduce pollution. “Electric auto rickshaws) will help in improve the traffic situation in the city, which is getting worse by the day. Also, electric-powered rickshaws will not be at the mercy of the erratic CNG supply," he added.
But, union leader Thampy Kurien was not convinced. He pointed out that around six years ago, Mahindra & Mahindra had launched a nine-seater electric auto rickshaw and Bajaj, too, had come out with a three-seater electric rickshaw.
"At the level of technology, maintenance, infrastructure availability to support the operations, it was found not feasible. I don't favour the idea," said Kurien.
State transport commissioner VN More said he was unsure how the battery-operated auto rickshaws will operate. "Though, technically the idea seems beneficial, issues such as infrastructure and technology to support daily operations and their feasibility will have to be looked into," said More.
