Jammu Launches Colour-Coded Zonal Drive to Streamline E-Rickshaw Operations

Jammu, Oct 23: The zonal regulation system for electric three-wheelers came into effect across Jammu district on Thursday, drawing mixed reactions from the public. The new system divides the city into colour-coded zones and restricts each electric rickshaw, auto, or cart to operate only within its assigned area.

According to a public notice issued by the Traffic Police, vehicles must display colour-coded identification plates and painted strips on both the front and rear. Senior Superintendent of Police (Traffic) Jammu, Farooq Qaiser, said any vehicle operating outside its designated zone or without proper identification will face strict penalties, including seizure. He added that electric three-wheelers are barred from using flyovers, national highways, and state highways within the district to ensure safety and smooth traffic flow. Seven highway crossings have been designated for controlled movement between zones, while vehicles registered outside Jammu district are not permitted within city limits.

However, the move has triggered strong opposition from three-wheeler operators and daily commuters, who termed the system “unrealistic and anti-people.” Drivers complained that restricting them to fixed zones would inconvenience passengers and reduce their earnings. “From Jewel Chowk to the Railway Station, a passenger will now have to change autos midway for just a three-kilometre journey. How is that practical?” asked Sohan Lal, an e-rickshaw operator from north Jammu.

Similarly, Balwant Singh from Nanak Nagar raised concerns about emergency situations. “If I need to take a patient from Nanak Nagar to GMC Hospital, I cannot cross the Tawi bridge. This is unacceptable,” he said. Commuters also voiced frustration, arguing that the decision would create confusion and delays. “Instead of convenience, this will cause chaos for both drivers and passengers,” said Omkar Nath, a local resident.

While criticism mounts, some city residents acknowledged that unregulated growth of electric rickshaws has worsened traffic congestion. Over the last 18 months, the number of three-wheelers has reportedly surged by nearly 80,000, with every second vehicle on city roads now being an auto or e-rickshaw. “Jammu’s roads cannot handle this level of congestion. Regulation is necessary, but it must be practical and fair,” said Avtar Singh, a retired officer.

Defending the initiative, Jammu Deputy Commissioner Dr. Rakesh Minhas said the decision was taken after extensive consultations with stakeholders to address unregulated movement and overcharging complaints. “The rapid and significant increase in the number of battery-operated three-wheelers has led to congestion and public inconvenience. The new system aims to ensure safety, traffic discipline, and commuter comfort while safeguarding the interests of operators,” he said.

Although authorities insist the regulation is in the public interest, critics demand a review of the policy to introduce flexible inter-zonal permits for emergency and short-distance travel.