Adv. Falak Jan
In recent years, e-rickshaws have gained popularity as an eco-friendly and affordable mode of transport in Jammu and Kashmir. However, the newly fixed rates of ₹2.5 per kilometer have raised concerns among both e-rickshaw operators and passengers. Many argue that these rates do not adequately reflect the operational costs involved in running an e-rickshaw, such as vehicle maintenance, battery charging, and the livelihood of the drivers.
The Issue with Current Fare Rates
The fixed rate of ₹2.5 per kilometer, while appearing affordable for passengers, may not provide enough financial sustainability for drivers. E-rickshaw drivers typically have to cover maintenance, charging infrastructure, and other hidden costs. Many of them rely on this daily income to support their families, and such low rates may make it challenging for them to sustain their livelihoods in the long term.
For instance, the cost of battery replacement, routine maintenance, and electricity charges can take up a significant portion of an e-rickshaw operator’s earnings. These costs, combined with the rising inflation and cost of living, make the current fare rates increasingly unsustainable for drivers.
Concerns Raised by Operators
Several e-rickshaw operators have voiced their concerns about the current fare structure. They argue that the rates are too low to make a decent living, especially when compared to the rising costs of electric vehicle maintenance. Furthermore, they stress that their work hours are long, and many operators are forced to drive over extended hours just to make ends meet.
“We’re working 12-hour days and barely making enough to cover expenses. The fare is not enough to support our families or pay for the upkeep of the e-rickshaw,” says one local operator.
What Needs to Change?
Experts suggest that the fare regulation should strike a balance between affordability for passengers and fair compensation for drivers. This could be achieved by considering the following points:
Revised Fare Structure: The fare per kilometer should be raised to a more sustainable rate, considering the actual cost of operation, such as maintenance, battery replacement, and charging. A more reasonable fare structure could be between ₹8 to ₹12 per kilometer, which would still be affordable for passengers while providing enough for the drivers to cover their costs and earn a livelihood.
Subsidies and Support: The government can also introduce subsidies for e-rickshaw drivers to help offset operational costs, such as charging infrastructure and battery replacement. This support could ensure that drivers aren’t forced to rely on low fares to survive.
Periodic Reviews of Fare Rates: The fare regulation should be periodically reviewed to adjust for inflation, rising costs, and changes in technology. Regular assessments will ensure that the rates remain fair and equitable for all stakeholders.
Transparent Fare Systems: Introducing fare meters in e-rickshaws and making the fare structure transparent would increase trust between operators and passengers, ensuring fairness on both sides.
The Way Forward
As Jammu and Kashmir seeks to promote sustainable and affordable transportation options, it is crucial to ensure that e-rickshaw drivers are not left struggling under unsustainable fare rates. By revising the fare structure, offering subsidies, and promoting transparent practices, the region can create a balanced solution that benefits everyone.
With careful regulation and continuous dialogue with stakeholders, Jammu and Kashmir can set an example for other regions on how to balance affordability, sustainability, and fairness in the transportation sector.
Adv. Falak Jan, holding qualifications in B.A. LL.B, LL.M, and DCLP, can be reached at Flkkhan26@gmail.com.