Pune RTO Forms Squads to Curb Illegal Carpooling
The rise of app-based carpooling services in Pune has prompted the Regional Transport Office (RTO) to take immediate action. With many passengers increasingly turning to vehicle-aggregator apps for carpooling options, the Pune RTO has formed six special squads to tackle what it considers illegal transport practices. These apps offer private vehicles for hire, allowing users to share rides and save costs, especially for popular routes between Mumbai, Pune, and Nashik. However, the state transport department has raised concerns over the legality of these services, which lack the necessary licences and safety measures required for commercial passenger transport.
The vehicle-aggregator apps have quickly gained popularity, attracting daily commuters who seek cost-effective and time-efficient options. For instance, some platforms allow passengers to book private cars travelling between major cities, such as Mumbai and Pune, offering a practical solution to the often-congested travel routes. However, these services are not legally recognised as passenger transport and operate without the necessary permits. This has raised alarm among authorities, who are concerned about passenger safety and potential legal liabilities, especially in the event of accidents.
To address this growing issue, the Pune RTO has launched a focused inspection campaign. Special teams of inspectors have been deployed to key locations, including Swargate, Chandani Chowk, Navale Bridge Chowk, and Pune Railway Station, where these services are most frequently availed. These squads will be tasked with intercepting private vehicles offering illegal carpooling services and issuing e-challans to those in violation. The RTO’s Assistant Regional Transport Officer, Vinayak Sakhre, highlighted the gravity of the situation, noting that the private vehicles in question are not licensed to carry passengers for hire. This lack of certification could have serious consequences, particularly if an accident were to occur, as the driver would not have the required passenger transport licence, insurance, or proper credentials to ensure passengers’ safety.
The crackdown by the RTO also brings to the forefront concerns regarding sustainability and the wider implications for urban transport. While carpooling can be a more sustainable alternative to single-occupancy vehicle usage, the unregulated nature of these services may result in more environmental harm than good. The absence of proper transport licences and safety measures undermines the very benefits carpooling aims to offer, such as reduced traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions. Moreover, without adequate checks and balances, these services may inadvertently contribute to urban traffic chaos, placing undue strain on existing infrastructure.
From a civic and regulatory perspective, this issue highlights the challenges of integrating new technologies and business models into existing urban transportation systems. While the demand for convenient, low-cost travel options is undeniable, it is essential for such services to operate within the boundaries of the law. The RTO’s intervention is a crucial step in ensuring that passenger safety and compliance with transport regulations are prioritised. As the transportation landscape evolves with technological innovations, a balance must be struck between convenience and safety, regulatory oversight, and sustainability.
In conclusion, while app-based carpooling offers promising benefits, such as reduced travel costs and environmental impact, the unregulated nature of these services poses significant risks. The Pune RTO’s proactive measures serve as a reminder that safety, proper licensing, and accountability are paramount in any transportation system. For the sustainable growth of urban mobility, it is crucial that all stakeholders, including commuters, service providers, and authorities, work together to ensure that transportation practices remain both safe and legally compliant.
