The digital meters
were supposed to be tamper-proof. However, it has come to light that
they can be cleverly tampered by auto wallahs. This means you always end
up paying more than what you should according to the meter charge. It
came to light after Legal Metrology department officials revealed they
have booked 923 cases in 2010-11 against errant auto drivers using
tampered meters. They had booked 681 cases last year.Recently,
the department along with city traffic police decided to crack the whip
on auto-drivers. In a special drive, they booked a total of 7,865 cases.
Out of them, 335 cases were registered for extra fare demand and 250
for refusal to carry passengers. It is no secret that a road
corner mechanic or motor spare parts store worker can tamper with the
meter, whether it is digital or mechanical, at a charge of just Rs 200
to 250. When Expresso approached a mechanic near Balanagar crossroads,
he explained how meters can be tampered with. He charged Rs 250 for
doing the smart but simple job. “Tampering of a meter is very simple
which auto drivers can even do on their own. The gear-box housing just
requires a replacement to show double meter-reading. It costs about Rs
150 and gears inside it can be manipulated to show twice the distance
travelled,’’ he explained. A number of mechanics situated in
Khairatabad, Koti, Punjagutta, a few places in Secunderabad and
Balanagar are reportedly well-versed with the process. Controller
of Legal Metrology, SA Huda said auto drivers can tamper with the
meters easily. “No one shows interest in complaining about meter
tampering. If we receive a compliant, we will be ready to check and book
cases, if it can be proved. One can send their complaint directly to SA
Huda on his mobile 9848032375 or send an online complaint at
sahuda1@rediffmail.com.
By Mouli Mareedu
moulimareedu@gmail.com
1 comment:
Good Article Mr. Mouli
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