Mangaluru : The Dakshina Kannada Regional Transport Authority (RTA) on Friday asked autorickshaw operators to collect the revised reduced fares — minimum Rs. 20 and per km Rs. 13 — or face legal action.

In a special meeting convened in the wake of autorickshaw strike since Tuesday midnight, Deputy Commissioner and RTA Chairman A.B. Ibrahim said the operators would be given three months’ time to get the meters recalibrated instead of one month. Till such time, they can collect Rs. 5 less in the total fare shown in the meters, he said.

During the meeting, operators reiterated their stand and said reduction cannot be possible unless cost of other inputs and the cost of living comes down. They termed the RTA action unjustified and an assault on the poor working class.

The RTA however pointed out that the reduction was just seven per cent though LPG price has come down by over 41 per cent and petrol by 17 per cent. Operators’ arguments were not justified, Mr. Ibrahim said. Superintendent of Police D.S. Sharanappa urged the operators to come out with a worksheet of alleged loss and convince the RTA before making a new plea for fare revision.

Mr. Ibrahim later told reporters that the RTA would allow autorickshaws permitted to ply in the entire Taluk to operate within the city if the strike continues. Suspension of permits too might be considered, he said and added interest of general public was also important for the RTA.

Autorickshaw operators are yet to decide their future course of action, said a leader.

The district administration would consider launching a helpline to register complaints against autorickshaws and buses, Mr. Ibrahim said responding to a query. He admitted it was difficult to passengers to always give a written complaint in cases of refusal to ply, overcharging, rude behaviour, over speeding, rash and negligent driving etc.