Unchecked electric autos create woes for Baramulla commuters

Baramulla, Oct 3: Residents of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district have raised concerns over the unregulated growth of electric autos (e-autos) in the area.

While e-autos have made commuting easier, issues such as overcharging, traffic congestion, and unsafe driving practices—including cases involving drug-addicted drivers—have alarmed locals.

“Several e-auto drivers have been found to drive recklessly. If authorities do not check this, it could prove catastrophic for commuters,” said Masood Ahmad, a resident of Khawjabagh, Baramulla.

Locals also allege that many e-autos operate without defined routes and charge fares similar to petrol-run autos despite significantly lower running costs.

“How can e-autos charge the same as petrol-driven vehicles?” questioned Bilal Ahmad, a resident. Commuters pointed out that the absence of official fare guidelines leaves passengers vulnerable to exploitation. “An e-auto costs just about Rs 30 for a full charge and runs nearly 75 km, yet passengers are forced to pay petrol-level fares,” said Ghulam Hassan, a daily commuter.

Residents have also highlighted that the unchecked proliferation of e-autos is worsening traffic congestion in already crowded markets.