Jamshedpur, Sept 27: In order to curb the practice of auto-rickshaw carrying passengers more than the permitted capacity and checked documents, the traffic police launched a surprise drive at three major junctions in the city. More than 50 auto-rickshaws were booked during the drive.
The drive was directed by Traffic Inspector at Bistupur, Mango Bus Stand and Sakchi Bus stand on Sunday. Many autorickshaws plying on the city�s busy thoroughfares could be seen carrying passengers more than the permitted capacity.
More than 50 auto-rickshaws were seized at the Jugsalai police station for violating Regional Transport Authority (RTA) order of 2000 following directive of the then Patna High Court (during erstwhile Bihar) which makes it mandatory for auto drivers to fix an iron rod on the right side so that passengers, especially elderly and children could feel safe.
The traffic police also checked documents of the seized autos to check if they had got pollution check and other necessary documents in place before levying fines for their offences.
Officials said that the drive against auto drivers carrying more passengers than their permit is aimed at reducing cases of mishaps in city.
�The auto operators have been given permit by Regional Transport Authority (RTA). as five-seaters capacity (including driver).
However, in the city the auto operators usually carry more than seven persons. From today, autos violating this provision would be liable for a fine of Rs 1000,� they said.
