Metro feeder e-auto fleet rusts at Kaloor parking lot

Kochi: To ensure last-mile connectivity for commuters, Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL) introduced electric feeder autos three years ago. However, a significant number of these vehicles are now lying idle and rusting at the Kaloor Metro station parking space, with several falling into disrepair due to poor maintenance.KMRL had launched a fleet of 75 e-autos as feeder services to help passengers reach nearby destinations from Metro stations. All the vehicles carry the KMRL logo as part of the feeder auto licence.At present, 32 of these vehicles are non-operational, while seven others were severely damaged in accidents. Many of the unused autos have been lying unattended for nearly six months, raising concerns about potential damage to their battery cells, which are among the most expensive components of the vehicles.Although the autos were purchased by KMRL, they are operated by members of the Ernakulam District Autorickshaw Drivers Cooperative Society (EJADCS). Under the agreement signed with the drivers, the responsibility for the vehicles' maintenance lies with the licence holders who operate them. However, drivers argue that since the vehicles are owned by KMRL, the Metro authority should take responsibility for maintenance.The drivers are required to pay a daily fee of Rs 312 to KMRL, regardless of whether the vehicle is operated on a particular day or not. "It is clearly stated in the contract agreement that the drivers have to pay the daily amount and maintain the vehicle they operate," a KMRL official said. The vehicles were parked at Kaloor at the drivers' request, for maintenance, he added. Due to the disagreement over maintenance responsibilities, many of the e-autos remain parked in the parking lot instead of operating on city roads. Several vehicles show signs of neglect, including dust-covered seats, worn-out body covers, flattened tyres and rusting metal parts.In an effort to address the issue, the Ernakulam District Autorickshaw Drivers Cooperative Society has stepped in to undertake maintenance work on the autos that are still operational. However, the problem has not been completely resolved.Society representatives said they expect the e-autos parked at Kaloor would return to service if KMRL repairs the vehicles and conducts the required fitness tests. "Drivers are also reluctant to operate e-autos because they can charge only the minimum fare while still paying daily rent. In addition, charging infrastructure is limited in several locations," said M B Symandha Bhadran, president of the society. He said only about 25 e-autos have been operating over the past month.He said a few vehicles are currently undergoing fitness tests after maintenance work carried out by the society. However, he maintained that KMRL alone cannot be blamed for the autos remaining parked at the Kaloor yard for such a long period.