In a move to tackle traffic congestion and urban pollution, Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced the immediate suspension of new auto-rickshaw permits across the state starting March 9. The state Cabinet will soon discuss specific criteria for future permits, with decisions based on the Cabinet’s outcome. The state government has the authority to regulate auto-rickshaw permits in cities with populations over 500,000.
Following discussions with the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, the Central government allowed the state to make decisions based on local conditions. State governments, under the Motor Vehicles Act, have the power to regulate transport permits and implement schemes to enhance last-mile connectivity and reduce traffic congestion. Minister Sarnaik cited issues like saturation, irregularities, livelihood impacts, and environmental concerns as reasons for the permit suspension.
Approximately 1.4 million auto-rickshaw permits have been issued in the state, with reports of multiple permits held in a single household and allegations of illegal permits given to undocumented individuals. The oversupply of vehicles has affected auto-rickshaw unions’ businesses and daily earnings, prompting concerns from environmentalists and public representatives about air quality and traffic management. Minister Sarnaik mentioned that the government is working on a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to ensure future permits benefit those genuinely in need.
The government aims to prioritize individuals like farmers’ children seeking livelihoods and educated unemployed youth looking for self-employment opportunities with the new permit regulations. Minister Sarnaik confirmed that until the Cabinet approves the new SOPs, no new permits will be issued, emphasizing the need for a revised framework before resuming the permit issuance process.
