Exorbitant CNG fare in Chittagong
As reported from the port city, the drivers of the CNG run three-wheelers are not only refusing to run on meter, they are also are charging passengers exorbitant fare. And this is being done despite government directives. This situation is not unique to Chittagong but is fairly representative of the situation, unfortunately, of all over the country.
Unfortunately, meters have become a show-piece, and one is a very lucky passenger who can get the driver to agree to go on meter. Even those that do agree haggle for extra 15 or 20 percent over what the meter would show.
And there is always the frequent complaint from the drivers that the daily deposit of the owners is high. In this regard, we understand that the owners, at least in Chittagong, are charging less than the rate of daily deposit by the auto-rickshaw drivers fixed by the government. It has also set the fare meter rate taking into account all the relevant factors including the cost of natural gas, and that must be strictly implemented.
It is the passengers that come out the worst in the tussle between the auto-rickshaw owners and the drivers. The matter we understand has been made even worse by a large number of unregistered three wheelers on the streets. And the law enforcing agencies must come in to ensure that the passengers do not become hostage to the situation. Strict action must be taken against the errant drivers as well as those owners who disregard the official directives in this regard.
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