Pune’s two busiest state transport terminals are set to introduce prepaid auto booths in a move aimed at tackling fare disputes, ride refusals and commuter inconvenience. The proposed system at Swargate and Wakdewadi ST bus stands is being shaped by the city’s traffic police in consultation with auto-rickshaw unions, signalling a structured approach to managing last-mile mobility at high-footfall transit nodes.
The initiative mirrors the prepaid model already operational at the city’s main railway station, where fixed-rate counters have reduced negotiation and complaints. Officials familiar with the discussions indicate that the booths would be positioned near primary exit points and auto parking bays, allowing passengers to pay an approved fare in advance before being assigned a vehicle. For Pune, where public transport interchanges are under pressure from rising passenger volumes and expanding suburban growth, the introduction of prepaid auto booths represents more than a commuter convenience measure. Swargate serves as a key gateway for inter-city and regional buses, while Wakdewadi connects travellers to northern Maharashtra routes. Together, the two terminals handle thousands of daily arrivals, many of whom rely on auto-rickshaws for short urban trips.
Transport observers note that refusal of short-distance rides and fare disagreements disproportionately affect elderly travellers, women, and those arriving late at night. A structured fare system could therefore strengthen perceptions of safety and predictability in public transport ecosystems a critical factor in encouraging a shift away from private vehicles. Under the proposed framework, fares would be calculated using government-approved rate charts, with payment collected at the booth prior to boarding. Authorities are also examining operational details such as vehicle rotation, peak-hour staffing and digital payment integration to minimise congestion and ensure transparency.
Auto-rickshaw union representatives have conveyed conditional support, emphasising the need for equitable vehicle allocation and basic amenities for drivers stationed at the terminals. Industry stakeholders argue that formalising operations can protect drivers from disputes while reinforcing accountability on both sides. Urban planners view such systems as incremental yet important reforms within India’s evolving mobility landscape. As cities pursue climate-resilient transport strategies, strengthening last-mile connectivity becomes central to reducing reliance on private cars. Efficient prepaid auto booths can help integrate buses, rail and para-transit services into a more seamless urban mobility network. If implemented effectively, Pune’s prepaid auto booths at its ST stands could become a replicable model for other tier-one and tier-two cities grappling with informal fare practices. The next phase will likely focus on execution timelines and monitoring mechanisms to ensure the reform delivers measurable improvements in commuter experience.
