The Calcutta High Court has directed the respondent authority to consider the petitioners’ representation dated September 3, 2024, regarding the grant of auto-rickshaw permits.
The petitioners, Bubun Ray and others, had filed a public interest petition alleging that the authorities were indiscriminately granting permits without considering the road condition, congestion of road traffic, and safety and security of passengers.
According to the notification issued by the Government of West Bengal on January 29, 2010, the grant of three-wheeled auto-rickshaw permits within a particular district should be considered by the concerned Regional Transport Authority (RTA) after taking into account the road condition, congestion of road traffic, and safety and security of passengers.
However, the petitioners alleged that this exercise was being flouted, resulting in the indiscriminate grant of permits.
The petitioners submitted that due to the indiscriminate grant of permits, auto-rickshaws were being compelled to park on the roadside, reducing the width of the road and causing accidents.
Despite submitting a representation to the authorities on September 3, 2024, the petitioners’ grievances remained unaddressed, prompting them to approach the court.
The court directed the third respondent to conduct an inspection, take note of clause 6 of the notification dated January 29, 2010, and pass appropriate orders on merits and in accordance with law within six weeks from the date of receipt of the server copy of the order.
The petitioners were also directed to appear in the office of the third respondent and hand over copies of the representation along with a copy of the order.