‘Cannot run share autos without stands’

Thane: Only 60 out of 150 share auto routes sanctioned in the civic limits are operational as the authorities have failed to designate stands, auto unions said. This has added to the commuters’ woes, who are being forced to keep track of the changing locations.
Unions said there are 35 routes operational in Thane city and most of them don’t have dedicated spaces. “There should be boards with route names and fares displayed on them at allocated spots.If the space is made available, several more routes can be introduced,” said Bhai Tilwe of the Viju Natekar auto union.
Areas along the Ghodbunder Road and Majiwada, Shil and Reti Bunder are some of the popular share auto routes as commuters get to travel to these places at almost a quarter of the regular fare.
“There are several routes operating from Gaondevi. But the starting point of the stand is relocated often leaving us confused,” says Shilpa Sharma, a Vartak Nagar resident.
Sources said that each share auto has to be approved by the RTO. After fixing the route and fare, the civic body decides on the location for setting up a stand in consultation with the traffic police.
RTO M B Jadhav said he will look into the matter and coordinate with the concerned agencies to ensure all routes are made operational.