Auto-correct: Cops crack the whip on illegal three-wheelers, slap Rs 3 lakh fines in just 4 days

Noida: The traffic police and the transport department launched a month-long crackdown on auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws on April 1. So far, 49 autos and e-rickshaws have been seized and cumulatively fined Rs 3.2 lakh for various violations.

Udit Narayan Pandey, ARTO (enforcement) GB Nagar, said the enforcement teams are conducting drives outside metro stations and are on the lookout for unregistered vehicles, those plying without a valid driving license or insurance, and vehicles found to be violating other transport norms. Many of these autos and e-rickshaws are found operating from unauthorised stands in sectors 18, 37, 51-52, Gaur Chowk and Botanical Garden metro station.

"We are keeping a strict watch on underage driving as well. If a minor is found driving, the parent or guardian will face a fine of Rs 25,000, and the minor's eligibility to obtain a license will be deferred from 18 to 25 years of age. Additionally, a case will be filed under the Juvenile Justice Act," he said.

Key for city's last-mile connectivity, three-wheelers have time and again been removed from busy marketplaces and metro stations but have always found their way back to occupy the stretches in matters of weeks.

A few years ago, traffic police banned e-rickshaws between Atta Peer and Atta Market, a busy marketplace, to prevent congestion. However, e-rickshaws and autos are still found parked near the entrance of the Sector 18 metro station on both sides of the road, adding to the snarls.

According to data from the transport department, Noida has around 18,000 auto-rickshaws and over 22,000 e-rickshaws. Overloading and wrong-side driving are among the most common violations, especially by e-rickshaws.

CB Jha, president of Atta market, said illegal parking by autos and e-rickshaws has worsened traffic congestion in the busy commercial hub. "Atta market is one of the oldest and most affordable markets in Noida. Thousands of people visit the market every day. But the growing encroachment by autos and e-rickshaws has led to regular traffic jams," he said.

Sanjeev Kumar, a resident of Sector 51, said the people need e-rickshaws and autos for last-mile connectivity. Another resident, Rupesh Kumar, echoed the same. "Its a good initiative, however the city lacks last-mile connectivity, and these autos and e-rickshaws fill that gap. The govt should strengthen the public transport system," he said.