Getting around Madras on autorickshaws

Madras, formerly known as Chennai, has a unique relationship with autorickshaws. These vehicles first appeared in the city during the early 1970s and have since become an essential part of daily life for many residents. In 1973, there were approximately 200 autorickshaws in Madras, and by 2026, their number had grown to around 100,000, serving 1.5 million passengers every day. This shows just how crucial they are as a mode of transportation.

The authorities have been grappling with autorickshaws for years, but they have consistently fallen behind in keeping up with the rapid growth in their numbers and usage. Initially, autorickshaws were only allowed to carry two passengers at a time, but this was increased to three in 1983, as they were often packed with more people than that. Today, drivers frequently cram in entire families or groups of schoolchildren during peak hours, demonstrating their flexibility and adaptability.

A major challenge that autorickshaw drivers face is the ever-changing meter fare rates. It often takes time for authorities to agree on new rates, and by the time they do, the calculations become outdated, leaving drivers at the mercy of the market. In recent years, there have been no metered rates at all.

Another issue is ownership, as 30% of autorickshaws in the city are not owned by the drivers themselves. Instead, they may be owned by lawyers, politicians, or other entities, which can lead to complications and problems for the drivers. Unfortunately, autorickshaw theft is also relatively common.

Despite their challenges, autorickshaws remain a lifeline for many Madrasis. Brands like 'Auto' Shankar and K. Kumar have become well-known figures, with the latter being celebrated as the founder of Goodwill Auto Stands. Even celebrities like Rajinikanth have had their own experiences with autorickshaws, making them a beloved part of the city's culture.

However, the rise of aggregator apps has had mixed results for autorickshaw drivers. While these apps may provide more opportunities, they have yet to fully replace the personal connections that drivers have built with their passengers. As long as autorickshaws continue to provide last-mile connectivity and convenience, they are likely to remain an integral part of life in Madras.