LAHAN: The increase in the number of auto rickshaws is posing significant challenges to traffic management in Lahan, a bustling bazaar in the district. The preference for auto rickshaws over other vehicles for short-distance travel, combined with narrow roads and reckless driving, has led to a rise in accidents.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the District Traffic Police Office reports that although auto rickshaws are intended for use in inner areas rather than main roads, they are increasingly concentrated on major thoroughfares, complicating traffic management efforts. Poshan Raj Thapaliya, the Chief at the District Traffic Police Office, highlighted the lack of traffic rule awareness among rickshaw drivers, particularly along the East-West Highway, which exacerbates traffic congestion and safety issues.
Chief District Officer Basu Dev Dahal acknowledged the overcapacity operations of auto rickshaws on major streets in Lahan, Golbazaar, and Mirchaiya, noting their significant contribution to road accidents. Dahal emphasized the urgent need for effective regulation to mitigate these challenges.
The district has seen a sharp rise in the number of auto rickshaws, with Sanjiv Uprety, Chairman of the Trade Union Federation in Siraha district, reporting over 300 vehicles, exceeding the road capacity by threefold. Uprety criticized the lack of attention from authorities to address this growing issue.
Bishnu Prasad Soti, Chief of the Area Police Office in Lahan, pointed out the absence of clear government policies or directives for regulating rickshaw operations. He described the situation as a “rickshaw terror” in the bazaar area and advocated for licensing rickshaw drivers to enforce legal compliance and reduce accidents. Soti suggested that the transport office establish standards to address the problem.
Meanwhile, Mahesh Prasad Chaudhari, the mayor of Lahan municipality, announced the development of a work procedure for managing and regulating auto rickshaws and e-rickshaws. He expressed optimism that this initiative would lead to better registration and management of these vehicles.