National, March 3, 2025: In a significant expansion of the pioneering 'Kota Cares' initiative, auto rickshaw unions of Kota representing over 10,000 drivers have united to introduce reforms to transportation services for students, further cementing the education hub's transformation into a model city for student welfare. The announcement comes just weeks after 4,000 hostel owners came together under ‘Kota Cares’ to introduce multiple student-friendly measures, including the elimination of security deposits. Three Auto rickshaw unions presented their proposal to district administration with the help of Kota student’s welfare society.
These unions, representing over 10,000 drivers across the student capital, have committed to a standardized fare structure, behavioural training programs, and enhanced support systems designed specifically for the city's 1.25 students. The initiative marks the first time in Kota's history that comprehensive transportation guidelines have been collectively established and displayed on all auto rickshaws operating in the city.
“Transportation is the lifeline of our city and often the first experience students have when arriving in Kota,” said Additional District Collector Anil Singhal, who presided over the meeting where the unions presented their proposals. “When auto drivers charge fair rates and provide good service, it creates a positive impression of our entire city. This unprecedented collaboration demonstrates our commitment to extending the Kota Cares philosophy to every aspect of student life.”
The reforms include several first-of-its-kind measures:
Standardized Fare Structure
- Fixed maximum fare of Rs. 20 per kilometer across all auto rickshaws
- Minimum fare of Rs. 30 for journeys up to one kilometer
- Standardized waiting charges of Rs. 50 per hour
- No additional charges on examination days or for student luggage
Safety and Support Measures
- Mandatory gatekeeper and behavioral training for all auto drivers
- Special focus on women auto drivers providing safe transportation for female students
- Protocol for reporting suspicious activities or student distress situations
- Continuation of emergency medical transportation services
Transparency Initiatives
- Fare charts and student guidelines to be prominently displayed in all 10,000 auto rickshaws with the help of Kota student’s welfare society.
- Information displays at coaching institutes about transportation guidelines
- Clear protocols for passenger belongings and emergency assistance
“We were inspired by what the hostel associations achieved under Kota Cares,” said Bhupendra Saxena, President of Kota Auto Driver Union. “As the first point of contact for most students arriving in our city, we recognize our crucial role in shaping their Kota experience. These self-imposed guidelines reflect our commitment to treating these young aspirants like our own children.”
The auto unions' representatives, including Deepak Tiwari, President of Hadoti Auto Rickshaw Hitkari Seva Samiti, and Mohammad Shakeel, President of Janseva Autorickshaw Union, collaborated on the proposal, demonstrating unprecedented unity across the transportation sector.
Deputy Superintendent of Traffic Police Ashok Kumar Meena praised the initiative, noting: “Auto rickshaws provide 24-hour service in our city, making them essential to student safety and mobility. This proactive approach by the unions will address multiple challenges at once, and the traffic police stand ready to support both students and drivers in implementing these changes.”
Implementation of the auto rickshaw reforms will begin immediately, with fare displays and training programs rolling out across the city in the coming days.
