Sunday, 3 November 2013
In a bid to ensure safety of commuters Udupi police have come up with a new system of giving unique numbers to auto drivers. Autorickshaw Drivers’ Display System (ADDS) was launched by IGP (Western Range) Pratap Reddy at SP’s office here on Friday. It will be made mandatory from January 1, 2014 , said the IGP.
This TSR system is aimed primarily at providing safety to autorickshaw passengers in the district. Its implementation comes against the backdrop of the gang-rape of a Manipal student, which generated widespread concern among people on the safety of autorickshaw passengers.
In case of a mishap, it will be easier to locate the autorickshaw driver in question. The fear of travelling unattended or travelling at night is reduced.
More people will be encouraged to travel in autorickshaws when driver details are verified by the police.
This will also enable the autorickshaw driver to get more passengers. There won’t be frequent police checks of driver’s documents.
"Under the system, auto drivers will have to visit the jurisdiction police station of their residence and fill a form. After the scrutiny, they will be given display cards with a unique identification number. They will have to display the card in their vehicles," he said.
A fine of Rs 2,000 will be imposed on violators. "The display cards will be issued free of cost. In future the system will be rolled out in Dakshina Kannada, Uttara Kannada and Chikamagalur districts," he added.
Superintendent of Police M.B. Boralingaiah said after autorickshaws, the TSR system would be extended to taxis and private buses in Udupi district.
