Mullai Muhilan, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Dakshina Kannada (DK), has issued an order allowing electric auto-rickshaws and those operating on methanol and ethanol to operate freely throughout the district. This new directive revokes the previous notification that required blue stickers for Zone 1 and yellow stickers for Zone 2 on all auto-rickshaws, including e-rickshaws and those using methanol and ethanol. The sticker requirement, initially set by the police department for identification purposes, has now been abolished.
RTO officials have been instructed to enforce this new order diligently. Furthermore, the Mangaluru city Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) and the district superintendent of police have been authorized to install necessary informational boards to inform the public and operators about this directive.
In accordance with the Motor Vehicles Act, the DC has also directed the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) commissioner and relevant local authorities in other areas to establish designated parking spaces and stopping points for auto-rickshaws. This move aims to streamline operations and ensure orderly movement within the city and district.
The decision is part of a broader initiative to promote eco-friendly transportation options and enhance the efficiency of public transportation within Dakshina Kannada. By permitting the unrestricted operation of electric and biofuel auto-rickshaws, the district aims to reduce pollution and support sustainable transport solutions.
