May 3rd 2024.
The closure of the pre-paid auto-rickshaw stand at the railway station in Rourkela has been causing a lot of inconvenience for passengers. Many have been arriving at the station only to be faced with exorbitant fares demanded by local auto drivers. Despite numerous requests from passengers, no action has been taken for the past seven years, according to locals. The pre-paid auto-rickshaw stand, which was initially introduced by former ADM Manisha Banerjee in 2016 and launched in 2017, was unfortunately shut down just two months later. The cabin that once operated the services now remains vacant. This has been a nightmare for passengers arriving at the railway station, especially during late hours, as they not only have to pay high fares but also face other forms of harassment from the auto drivers.
The distressing experience of an elderly couple who arrived at the station late at night is still talked about among the locals. They had to wait for more than two hours, but no auto was available to take them home. Despite seeking help from the RPF and GRP personnel present at the station, they were left stranded. Luckily, their neighbor came to their rescue and drove them home. Unfortunately, this situation still persists, and it seems like the authorities are not taking any measures to improve it. There have been instances where it appears that even the police are working in collusion with the auto rickshaw drivers. Passengers are being charged exorbitant fares for traveling to places like Chhend, Koel Nagar, Fertiliser Township, Panposh, Bondamunda, and other areas. Many have expressed their frustration and asked when the administration and police will step in to help them.
One lady shared her traumatic experience with the correspondent, where she arrived from Kolkata early in the morning and was met with a group of auto drivers who refused to let her son take her home unless they hired one of them. It was only after she raised her voice that they finally let them go. This kind of behavior from the auto drivers is unacceptable, and passengers should not have to go through such difficulties when all they want is to reach their destination safely and at a reasonable cost. It is high time that the authorities take action and reinstate the pre-paid auto-rickshaw stand at the railway station to ease the plight of the passengers. The well-being and convenience of the passengers should be a top priority, and it is the responsibility of the administration and police to ensure their safety and comfort.
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