Auto Rickshaw Drivers Welcome Ban on New Permits in Pune

Pune : Auto rickshaw drivers and their unions in Pune have welcomed the government’s decision to stop issuing new auto rickshaw and taxi permits from Monday (March 9). Drivers expressed relief and thanked the government, saying the move will help control the growing number of rickshaws in the city.

For nearly nine years, auto rickshaw permits were being issued freely, which led to a sharp increase in the number of vehicles. As a result, many drivers said their income had declined due to increased competition.

Rickshaw unions in Pune and other parts of the state had repeatedly demanded that the government stop the open distribution of permits. They had also staged protests and submitted memorandums to authorities over the issue.

Following the government’s decision, many drivers said the move came late but would still benefit those already working in the profession.

According to union representatives, the rising number of rickshaws had also contributed to traffic congestion in the city and made it difficult for drivers to earn a stable income.

Currently, Pune has around 1,41,332 registered auto rickshaws, and union leaders say it remains unclear whether this number is appropriate based on the city’s population and transport needs.