Commuters seek e-payment system in autos

KOCHI: With disputes over fares between autorickshaw drivers and commuters becoming a regular affair, there is a growing demand for introducing digital payment system.

Commuters prefer to have an electronic record of distance travelled, time taken as well as the fare collected. Enabling GPS system will help identify the shortest and traffic-free routes. "Drivers often refuse to take some routes saying that there is heavy traffic movement. Though Google Maps facility is available, autorickshaw drivers are reluctant to follow this. The driver and commuter should be brought under a single platform," said Ganapathy S G a trader on T D Road.

According to commuters, introducing e-payment system has several other advantages. "Dispute over not giving sufficient change is a common issue. Facilities like making payment through internet banking and other payment services are not available for autorickshaw services. Disputes over change can be resolved by introducing e-payments," said Shalini L, a college student from Kalamssery.

A source close to Ernakulam autorickshaw drivers cooperative society said electronic system would be eventually introduced in their vehicles. "The society has just been formed. They have to elect office-bearers, and then take up various issues for discussion. The process will take time as the people heading the society are busy with election-related works," said the source.