Watch movies on LCD screens inside autorickshaws, taxis

Passengers might soon be able to enjoy infotainment in conventional black-and-yellow taxis and auto-rickshaws, along with app-based taxis of taxi aggregators. The state transport authority (STA) has given its nod to installation of LED or LCD screens in all vehicles falling under motor cab category along with autorickshaws, subject to approval from local transport authorities.

The STA, chaired by transport secretary of Maharashtra, gave its nod to a new policy on advertisements in its last meeting held on January 19. Minutes of the meeting accessed by HT said electronic screens should be installed at a spot where drivers won’t get distracted. An official, who is not authorized to speak to media, said these electronic screens for advertisement can be fixed on the roof of cabs or behind the seats of autos and taxis. “The STA had sought feedback from Pune-based Central Institute of Road Transport (CIRT), before taking a final decision on the advertisement policy,” he said.

Maharashtra has over 10 lakh taxis and autorickshaws, including tourist cabs. Currently, they were allowed only to display advertisements on the exterior. Some tourist cabs have already put LED screens to attract customers. Infotainment electronic screens are already present inside AC buses of the state transport corporation and some premium trains like Tejas Express. According to RTO officials, the decision to install electronic screens is expected to prove beneficial to both passengers and permit-holders. It will help permit holders to earn extra money from the advertisement, whereas passengers will get free entertainment during the journey. The STA, however, warned that identity of the vehicle or colour scheme should remain unaffected. “It would be mandatory to show social advertisements and road safety related message, while advertising through electronic screens,” state the minutes. AL Quadros, veteran taxi union leader, said, “It will prove helpful in improving financial situation of taxi drivers.”