Chennai, Aug 26 — The Tamil Nadu government will hold a second tripartite meeting in Chennai on Thursday to finalise revised fares for the 3.46 lakh autorickshaws operating across the State.
Representatives of autorickshaw trade unions, passenger associations and the State government are expected to participate in the meeting.
The discussions will focus on resolving differences over the proposed minimum fare and reaching an agreement acceptable to both drivers and commuters.
The government initiated consultations after autorickshaw unions repeatedly sought a revision of the existing fare structure, citing the rising cost of fuel, vehicle maintenance, insurance, spare parts and other operating expenses.
Passenger groups, however, have stressed that any increase should remain affordable and should not place an excessive financial burden on regular commuters.
The first tripartite meeting was held in Chennai on July 9 to gather the views of all stakeholders. More than 30 office-bearers of autorickshaw trade unions and around 90 representatives of passenger organisations took part in the deliberations.
During the meeting, the trade unions demanded that the minimum autorickshaw fare be increased to ₹70. Union representatives argued that the revision was necessary to compensate drivers for the substantial rise in their daily operating costs and enable them to earn a reasonable livelihood.
Passenger association representatives opposed the proposed ₹70 minimum fare and suggested that it be fixed at ₹50. They maintained that a steep increase could adversely affect commuters who depend on autorickshaws for short-distance travel, particularly senior citizens, students and people travelling in areas with limited public transport connectivity.
The differing proposals prompted the government to examine the representations submitted by both sides before preparing its recommendations.
Officials have since drafted a final report outlining the proposed fare structure. The report is expected to be discussed at Thursday’s meeting before the revised tariff is formally approved and announced.
Apart from the minimum fare, the deliberations are likely to cover charges for additional distance and the practical implementation of the new rates.
The revised fare structure will apply to autorickshaws operating throughout Tamil Nadu. The government is expected to seek a balance between protecting the livelihood of drivers and ensuring that fares remain reasonable for passengers.
A formal announcement on the new autorickshaw fares is likely to be made after the conclusion of the meeting.