Chennai, Sep 16 (NationPress) The highly anticipated integrated transport mobile application for Chennai, aimed at facilitating seamless single-ticketing across various public transport modes, is set for its debut. Unfortunately, the lack of a revised autorickshaw fare framework has postponed the introduction of its dedicated ride-hailing feature, causing dissatisfaction among drivers.

This application, created by Namma Yatri for the Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (CUMTA), initiated trial runs in June under the name 'Anna Ride', subsequently rebranded as 'Chennai One'. It is crafted to enable commuters to purchase tickets for MTC buses, Chennai Metro Rail, and suburban EMU trains, in addition to providing last-mile connectivity through taxi services.

Officials from CUMTA have stated that they are awaiting the Chief Minister’s approval for both the official launch of the app and the endorsement of the city’s comprehensive mobility plan.

While the single-ticketing feature is fully prepared, officials have clarified that the unique autorickshaw-hailing service cannot be initiated until the government enacts a new fare structure and establishes a system for regular fare updates.

“We cannot function like private aggregators that set their own rates. A government order regarding updated fares is essential before we can incorporate autorickshaws,” a senior official remarked.

Autorickshaw unions have voiced their concerns regarding the delay, emphasizing that the last fare adjustment took place in 2013. Under the current fare system, commuters are charged Rs 25 for the initial 1.8 km and Rs 12 for each additional kilometre.

Union leaders argue that escalating fuel prices, insurance costs, RTO fees, and maintenance expenses have rendered these rates untenable.

S. Balasubramanian, working president of Tamil Nadu Auto Thozhilalar Sammelanam, criticized the government for its inaction, suggesting that private operators are charging significantly higher fares.

“The government fears that increasing fares will provoke public dissent, even as other tariffs like property taxes and electricity rates have been raised. Our request is merely for a fair and overdue fare adjustment,” he stated.

In February 2022, the Madras High Court mandated the state to revise autorickshaw fares. After discussions with stakeholders, the Transport Commissioner proposed a minimum fare of Rs 40 for the first 1.8 km and Rs 18 for each additional kilometre.

Since then, unions have called for Rs 50 for the first 1.5 km and Rs 25 thereafter. Despite recommendations being submitted to the government earlier this year, no resolution has been reached. “It has been three years since the court ruling, and costs have only risen. We urge the government to take prompt action so that both commuters and drivers can benefit from a transparent and regulated system,” Balasubramanian concluded.