Greater Noida West: Controversy Erupts Over Hiked Auto and E-Rickshaw Fares at Gaud Chowk

Greater Noida West: A sudden increase in auto and e-rickshaw fares at Gaud Chowk in Greater Noida West has sparked disputes between passengers and drivers, highlighting the ongoing challenges in public transport in the area.

Commuters traveling from Gaud Chowk to Tigri and the highway have been asked to pay ₹20 instead of the usual ₹10. Several drivers reportedly refused to carry passengers who refused to pay the new fare, leading to heated arguments at the site.

Daily commuters Yash and Kalpana said that they have been traveling between Noida and Tigri regularly. “Two days ago, when we boarded an e-rickshaw from Gaud Chowk at night, the drivers demanded ₹20 for the same distance that used to cost ₹10,” they said, adding that fare boards displaying the new rates had been installed.

Resident Rashmi Pandey pointed out that thousands of families live in the high-rise and low-rise societies and sectors in the area, but adequate metro or public transport facilities are still unavailable. “People are forced to rely on autos and e-rickshaws, and drivers are taking advantage of this,” she said.

Abhishek Kumar and Deepankar Kumar, presidents of NEFOWA, announced that around 300–400 people will stage a protest at Jantar Mantar on 15 March to demand better metro connectivity. They warned that disputes over transport will continue until proper public transport infrastructure is provided.

A video of the confrontation at Gaud Chowk has gone viral on social media, prompting criticism of the transport department and local authorities. Bisrakh Kotwali in-charge stated that the police have mediated between drivers and commuters to maintain law and order.