They are checking the e-meters to eliminate the possibility of rigging it. The autorickshaw drivers' union claim that they had proved this earlier when the e-meters were introduced.
The Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) of the city's Transport Department have begun a crackdown on auto rickshaws across eastern and western suburbs to check the e-meters on them.
They are checking the e-meters to eliminate the possibility of rigging it. The autorickshaw drivers' union claim that they had proved this earlier when the e-meters were introduced.
"We had shown the RTOs that there is a process by which e-meters could be tampered with. It can be done mainly by cutting and realigning wires of these e-meters whose pulse ticks based on the speed of the rickshaw," said Thampi Kurien, general secretary of Mumbai Rickshawmen's Union.
The e-meter was introduced with an intention to prevent rigging of mechanical meters as several complaints from passengers were registered in the past.
Manoj Saunik, Principal Secretary (Transport) had told DNA earlier that fraudsters find ways of finding loophole in any technology and therefore periodic regulations will be undertaken by RTOs.
Last week, an auto driver was caught by a passenger who found a red-coloured button which amplified the pulse of the e-meter. As per modus operandi, RTO officials explained that this driver removed all the four seals which is put as a verification code for any rickshaw.
These seals are stamped by RTOs and government approved e-meter testing institutes. The seals on the e-meter and the engine were removed. A new wire was attached to the e-meter which was controlled by the red button for amplifying the speed of the pulse which rapidly changed the fares.
The crackdown on autorickshaws started on Friday. The areas around the railway stations at Andheri, Kurla, Bandra, Ghatkopar, Bhandup, Nahur, Vikhroli etc are being thoroughly checked.
"The driver has confessed that there are several rickshaws plying in Bhandup-Vikhroli areas that have tampered the e-meter," said a RTO official.
FOR A FAIR RIDE
- The crackdown started on Friday
- Areas near stations at Andheri, Kurla, Ghatkopar, Bandra, being checked.
- E-meters were introduced to prevent rigging of mechanical meters
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