Belagavi: In a major move to regulate passenger transport services in the city, the Belagavi district administration has ordered an immediate halt to Rapido bike taxi operations using private vehicles and set a 15-day deadline for all autorickshaws to install and operate fare meters.The decisions were taken at a meeting chaired by deputy commissioner Mohammad Roshan on Wednesday evening. Representatives of autorickshaw owners’ and drivers’ associations, regional transport office (RTO) officials, police officers, and other departmental representatives attended the meeting.Addressing the gathering, Roshan said the use of private two-wheelers and cars bearing white number plates for commercial passenger transport is illegal. He directed RTO officials to take strict action and ensure effective enforcement of the ban.During the meeting, autorickshaw associations agreed to install fare meters in all vehicles. Following the consensus, the district administration set a 15-day deadline for compliance. Roshan said the move would improve transparency in fare collection and protect passengers from overcharging.The administration also revised autorickshaw fares in response to demands from drivers’ associations. The minimum fare for 1.6km has been fixed at Rs 37, with authorities stating that the revision seeks to balance commuters’ interests with fair earnings for drivers.The issue of issuing new autorickshaw permits was also discussed. Officials noted that many existing drivers are struggling due to limited business opportunities. Considering the current market conditions, the administration decided to restrict the issuance of new permits. However, applications linked to prior registrations or bookings will be examined on a case-by-case basis before a final decision is taken.
