Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Jan 11: The Regional Transport Officer of Kashmir, Syed Shahnawaz Bukhari, stated today that it is entirely legal for cab services to enlist private vehicles, provided that the drivers are provided with a 5-lakh insurance cover.
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He made these remarks during the launch of Traffic Awareness Week, in collaboration with the Regional Transport Office of Kashmir and Nehru Yuva Kendra. “There are around 4-5 cab aggregator services registered here, including OLA, Uber, and local brands like ALA cabs. There is a provision for roping in private vehicles, but they must ensure that the drivers are adequately insured,” he said.
He said the security for these drivers is in the form of a 5-lakh insurance policy. “Private vehicles associated with these aggregators are allowed five rides intracity and two rides intercity. It is not altogether illegal, but I request all private vehicle owners not to align with aggregators without insurance. Any violation will result in actions initiated against both aggregators and private vehicle owners,” he said.
Bukhari also mentioned the strict measures taken regarding the fitness of vehicles. “Vehicles whose fitness has expired have been blacklisted. If any driver is found on the road with a blacklisted vehicle, it will be confiscated, and penalties will be implemented,” he said.
Discussing fare rates for e-autorickshaws, he clarified, “For rickshaws, the rates were decided in 2021- Rs 40 for the first two kilometres and Rs 20 for every additional kilometer. As for e-rickshaws accommodating four people, the charges are Rs 10 for the first two kilometres and Rs 5 for every additional kilometer. These rates are publicly available, and it is the responsibility of the people to be aware of them,” he said.
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