Guwahati has been witnessing a surge in reckless e-rickshaw operations, posing a serious threat to road safety. These battery-powered rickshaws, often flouting traffic regulations, have become a menace on major highways like Betkuchi and NH37, raising concerns among commuters.
E-rickshaw drivers are increasingly disregarding traffic rules, endangering themselves and others. They weave in and out of traffic, and drive against the flow of oncoming vehicles.
The problem is compounded by the fact that e-rickshaws are not designed for high-speed traffic on highways. Their limited speed and manoeuvrability make them ill-suited for these roads, further increasing the risk of accidents.
ALSO READ: Guwahati's Autorickshaws Avoid Using Fare Meters For Fair Pricing
However, a serious issue seems to be present in the traffic police department due to the lack of regulators in the signal area. The traffic police officers, in this regard resisted to give any comment upon why there is no traffic regulation in the concerned area. The Officer -in -Charge of the Garchuk police station stated that, "We will soon ensure the deployment of a traffic police officer in the NH37 traffic point".
Enforcing traffic rules on e-rickshaws is proving to be a challenge. The sheer number of these vehicles and the lack of proper licensing and training for drivers make it difficult for the police to effectively regulate them.
"E-rickshaws are not supposed to be driving on highways but around this area I do notice a disruption in the traffic rules" said Lakhinath Chetia, Secretary of all Assam E-rickshaw Sanstha.
Authorities must consider designating specific routes for e-rickshaws, excluding them from high-speed highways and implementing mandatory training programs for e-rickshaw drivers to educate them on traffic rules and safe driving practices.
A proper licensing system for e-rickshaws and their drivers, collaborative efforts from the traffic police, transport authorities, e-rickshaw driver associations, and the public, are crucial to ensure safe and responsible operations of these vehicles on Guwahati's roads. Raising public awareness about the dangers of reckless e-rickshaw driving and encouraging commuters to use legitimate transportation services could help reduce the problem.
E-rickshaws can be a sustainable and cost-effective mode of transportation, but their operation needs to be regulated effectively. Finding a balance between providing a livelihood for drivers and ensuring the safety of all road users is essential. Only through a collaborative effort can Guwahati create a transportation system that is safe, efficient, and inclusive for all.