Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Jan 22: In accordance with an order passed in a case before the Karnataka High Court, the Dakshina Kannada district administration has decided to impose regulations and issue permits to control traffic congestion in Mangaluru city.

As per the decision, battery-operated auto-rickshaws that were registered and have been operating without route permits between January 20, 2022, and October 30, 2025, and are plying within Zone-1 limits, must apply to the regional transport authority (RTA) and obtain permits subject to prescribed conditions.

Permit holders operating within Zone-1 are required to paint their e-auto-rickshaws with a sky-blue colour in a square pattern and obtain an identification number from the police department.

Applicants must submit a residential proof certificate confirming a minimum of five years of residence within the limits of Mangaluru City Corporation. E-auto-rickshaw permits will not be granted to those who already hold auto-rickshaw permits within Mangaluru city limits. Only one e-auto-rickshaw permit will be issued per person.

Those obtaining e-auto-rickshaw permits must possess a valid auto-rickshaw driving licence and badge, and it is mandatory that the permit holder personally drives the auto-rickshaw.

Deputy transport commissioner, in a notification, has directed eligible applicants to submit applications in the prescribed format to the authority and obtain permits at the earliest in compliance with legal and administrative requirements.