The state government has hit upon what seems to be arguably the most innovative solution yet to rein in unruly autorickshaw drivers: colour-code them blue-and-white.
The transport department has issued instructions to auto unions that all auto drivers must wear uniforms in blue-and-white stripes, with their names and vehicles’ registration numbers displayed prominently on the left pocket.
“The decision has been conveyed to the respective auto unions,” said transport minister Madan Mitra on Sunday. “The order will be implemented after the elections.”
The minister said the uniforms would discipline autorickshaw drivers and make commuting in autos safer. “Since the uniforms will bear their names, the drivers will be forced to behave themselves with passengers, lest they are identified. The uniforms will also have registration numbers of the autos. This is one way of legalising autos,” Mitra said.
As an incentive, the transport department has decided to sponsor the first set of blue-and-white uniforms.
