Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Nov 1: In a significant step to regulate auto-rickshaw operations and streamline the movement of electric vehicles, Dakshina Kannada deputy commissioner (DC) Darshan H V has made it mandatory for all battery-operated autos to obtain permits before operating within the district.
The order, issued under Section 115 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and Rule 221(A)(5) of the Karnataka Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, rescinds an earlier directive dated July 26, 2024, which had allowed the free movement of e-autos and vehicles using methanol and ethanol fuels.
According to the new notification, battery-powered autos registered between January 20, 2002, and October 30, 2025, and operating within Zone 1 (Mangaluru city and Ullal) must submit applications to the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) to obtain valid permits. The directive was framed following deliberations at the RTA meeting held on August 18.
DC Darshan H V has instructed that autos with Zone 1 permits be identified by a sky-blue, square-shaped marking and a police-issued identification number. These vehicles must operate only within designated auto stands under the Zone 1 limits.
For Zone 2 (rural areas), all electric autos registered after October 30, 2025 will be considered rural permit holders, and all rural permits will be categorised under Zone 2. Such vehicles must not enter Zone 1 boundaries and should operate exclusively within rural limits. Zone 2 autos will be distinguished by a circular yellow sticker bearing a police-issued identification number.
“All e-autos operating without valid permits must regularise their status immediately,” the deputy commissioner directed, emphasising that the move aims to ensure road discipline, safety and fair competition among permit holders.
The Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) commissioner has been instructed to install signboards as per Section 116 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and Rule 221(A)(2) of the Karnataka Motor Vehicles Rules to facilitate strict enforcement of the new zoning system.
Meanwhile, the deputy commissioner of police (crime and traffic division) and the senior regional transport officer have been tasked with ensuring effective implementation of the order across Dakshina Kannada.