The State Transport department in Hyderabad has not been enforcing the law that requires autorickshaws to change their Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) kits. Many autorickshaws in the city have not replaced their kits for several years, which could lead to dangerous incidents.
According to regulations, CNG kits should be changed every three years and LPG kits every five years. However, not all auto drivers follow these guidelines. The Union Ministry for Road Transport and Highways is considering allowing retrofitting of CNG and LPG kits, but state transport departments have not been following the central government’s rules.
The Transport department in Telangana started installing LPG kits in autorickshaws in 1999 to reduce pollution. There are over one lakh autorickshaws in Greater Hyderabad, with about 90 percent running on CNG or LPG without changing their kits for many years. Some vehicles have not changed their kits even after 10 years.
The Telangana Auto and Motor Welfare Union has raised concerns about the safety risks associated with expired kits. Despite numerous appeals to government officials, the transport department has not taken action to enforce the rules.
The City Auto & Motor Cab Drivers Welfare Society President has also voiced worries about the threat posed by autos using outdated kits. If these kits are not replaced on time, they can overheat and cause gas leaks, leading to explosions. Authorities should be stricter with auto drivers who are endangering the public.
Under the regulations, CNG vehicles must undergo safety tests every three years. Fitness certificates and permits should not be issued if vehicles do not pass these tests. However, authorities have reportedly been neglecting to check gas kits for many years.
