Agartala, June 17: To tackle increasing incidents of permit violations by auto-rickshaw drivers, the Tripura Transport Department has introduced a new colour code system for autos operating within the Agartala Municipal Corporation area.
Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury, addressing the media at the civil secretariat on Tuesday, announced that all auto-rickshaws plying within the city will now be required to add a pink shade to the front of their vehicles for easy identification.
“The decision was taken after thorough discussions with union leaders, police officials, and other stakeholders. It will help prevent autos from violating their designated routes,” said Chowdhury.
For years, transport workers’ unions have raised concerns about route violations, often leading to disputes and even physical altercations between drivers from Agartala and those from nearby subdivisions. The new measure aims to resolve this by clearly distinguishing autos operating within the city limits.
“Any auto coming from outside Agartala can now be identified based on the absence of the pink shade. Violations will attract strict penalties,” the Minister said. However, he added that exceptions would be made in cases of medical emergencies and air passenger transport, provided proper documentation is shown.
Chowdhury also warned private vehicle owners using their cars for commercial purposes without appropriate registration. “We’ve observed that many private vehicles, especially in schools, are used for commercial transport. Notices will be issued, and vehicle owners must obtain commercial registration within a month,” he said.
Additionally, he emphasized that auto drivers should refrain from taking long-route journeys not covered under their permits. “If any such violations are found, heavy penalties will be imposed,” Chowdhury concluded.
The move is expected to bring much-needed order to the city’s public transport system and prevent conflicts among drivers over route misuse.
