Safety Decision for Women: Driver identification mandatory on all public vehicles, 15-day deadline

The Uttar Pradesh Transport Department has taken a major decision regarding women’s safety. Now, all e-rickshaws, autos, taxis, and app-based cabs (Ola, Uber, Rapido) operating in every district of the state will prominently display the driver’s name, Aadhaar number, and mobile number. This rule will be implemented first in Lucknow, with vehicle owners given a 15-day compliance period.

Lucknow: Keeping in mind the safety of women, the Uttar Pradesh government has now made it mandatory to write important information related to the driver's identity in public vehicles like autos, e-rickshaws, taxis, Ola-Ubers, and RPEDOs.

According to the information received by the Dynamite News correspondent, the driver's name, Aadhaar number, and mobile number will be clearly pasted inside these vehicles.

15-day ultimatum

The Transport Department has given the drivers 15 days for this. Within the stipulated time, the driver will not display this information on his vehicle. Action will be taken against them under the Motor Vehicles Act. First of all, this rule will be implemented in Lucknow, and then it will be made mandatory in the entire state.

RTO's strictness

RTO (Enforcement) of Lucknow Prabhat Pandey said that women and other passengers will feel safer when the driver's information is clear inside the vehicle. She will be able to share information about that vehicle with the family when needed during the journey, so that action will be easier in an unpleasant situation.

Why was this decision taken?

Recently, incidents of e-rickshaws and autos with women in many districts, including Lucknow, have come to light. After this, the chairman of the State Women's Commission sent a letter to the Transport Department on 26 May demanding to take necessary steps. After that, this new order was issued.

The driver will have to put this information in a place from where the passengers can see him directly. This card or sticker can be pasted in front of the seat or at the back of the driver's seat. Putting a recent passport-size photo with information can also be made mandatory so that identification is easier.

Rule Breakers will be Punished

Action can be taken against the drivers or owners who will not follow this rule under the Motor Vehicle Act, action such as invoices, fines, and license suspension. In this regard, the Transport Department of Lucknow has issued instructions to all RTO circles. The Transport Department will also expand the scheme in other districts after implementing this rule in Lucknow.

This step is considered very important to fulfill objectives like women's safety, passenger trust, and curbingcrime.