In a major move to regulate fares and ease traffic congestion, the Maharashtra government has announced that all taxi and auto drivers in Vasai–Virar must strictly operate using meter-based fares starting November 15.
The directive, part of the Taxi and Auto Meter Rule Vasai-Virar initiative, was confirmed by State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik on October 13 following a high-level meeting at Mantralaya.
Meeting Focused on Commuter Welfare and Traffic Management
The meeting saw participation from MLA Sneha Dubey, MSRTC Managing Director Dr. Madhav Kusekar, Vasai–Virar Municipal Commissioner Manoj Suryavanshi, and Additional Transport Commissioner Bharat Kalaskar, among other officials.
The agenda centered around tackling traffic congestion in the Vasai–Virar Municipal Corporation (VVMC) area, ensuring smoother travel for daily commuters, and promoting fare transparency.
According to Minister Sarnaik, taxi and rickshaw drivers must charge passengers strictly as per the state-approved meter fares. He emphasized that the government will not tolerate overcharging or refusal to use meters.
Long-Distance Bus Services from Vasai–Virar
In addition to the fare regulation, the Transport Minister has instructed the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) to launch long-distance bus services from Vasai–Virar to Thane and Kalyan.
This move aims to improve regional connectivity and provide affordable transport options to thousands of commuters traveling between Mumbai’s extended suburbs and neighboring districts.
Furthermore, orders were issued to activate the Vasai, Virar, and Nalasopara bus depots, enhancing local transport efficiency within VVMC limits.
Background: Earlier Protests by Rickshaw Unions
The announcement follows a tense year for the state’s transport sector. Earlier in May 2024, thousands of auto rickshaw drivers across Maharashtra staged widespread protests opposing the government’s approval of e-bike taxi and bike pooling services.
The agitation, organized by the Joint Action Committee of Auto Rickshaw Driver-Owner Associations, saw demonstrations outside Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) across Mumbai, Konkan, Western Maharashtra, Vidarbha, Marathwada, Khandesh, and other regions.
Protestors argued that allowing e-bike taxis would disrupt the existing public transport ecosystem, reduce their daily income, and lower the demand for traditional auto rickshaw services.
Impact on Vasai–Virar Commuters
For residents of Vasai, Virar, and Nalasopara, the enforcement of the Taxi and Auto Meter Rule Vasai-Virar could bring much-needed transparency to local travel costs.
Over the years, many passengers have complained about arbitrary fare negotiations and lack of metered rides, especially for short distances. The upcoming regulation promises fair pricing and consistent travel experiences for all.
Implementation and Compliance
Authorities have indicated that strict monitoring and enforcement will follow the November 15 deadline. Non-compliance may lead to penalties or suspension of driving licenses.
Local transport authorities are expected to conduct awareness drives among drivers to ensure smooth transition and compliance with the meter-based fare system.
Government’s Commitment to Fair Travel
The initiative underscores the Maharashtra government’s commitment to fair transportation practices and passenger welfare. With elections around the corner, it also reflects a proactive stance toward addressing long-standing commuter issues in the rapidly growing Vasai–Virar region.
