Guwahati: Rising cycle-rickshaw fares burn holes in commuters’ pockets

STAFF REPORTER

Guwahati: Residents of Guwahati are grappling with soaring cycle-rickshaw fares, which have seen a significant rise in recent months. The lack of a standardized fare structure or enforcement mechanisms has left commuters vulnerable to fluctuating and often exorbitant charges, particularly during peak hours or in areas with limited transport options.

Many residents of Beltola, who depend on cycle rickshaws for their daily commute, have expressed their frustration. "We have no choice but to pay whatever the driver demands," said Bedanta Gogoi, a daily commuter. "Sometimes, the fares are nearly double what they were just a month ago."

Kuldip Mahanta, another working professional, echoed similar concerns, saying, "The fares are out of control now. They change depending on the time of day, and during emergencies like floods or rains, they charge whatever they feel like."

While commuters blame the absence of regulatory measures, rickshaw drivers defend the fare hikes, citing rising costs of living. "You know the world today, and with it our expenses have gone up, and we also have families to support," explained Moinul Ali, a rickshaw driver operating in Beltola.

The Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) has acknowledged the issue but admitted to a lack of immediate solutions.

Speaking to The Sentinel, a GMC official source said, "We have plans to regulate how rickshaws are functioning, including checking operational lights at night. However, there are currently no regulations on fares. In the future, we may introduce plausible regulations."

The lack of oversight has left many questioning when authorities will take concrete steps to address this pressing issue.

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