Unions are expressing reluctance to start shared autorickshaw services for the last-mile connectivity of the Metro, despite getting approval from the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) on Wednesday.

Their objection is about the lack of proper parking space for vehicles at the metro stations. Pointing out the challenge, Nitin Pawar, who represents Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad's largest union Rickshaw Panchayat, said, Where is the parking space near most of the stations? How can the service run without enough space? We have asked about this. I inquired. The authorities, but it seems they don't have a plan.

Pune's deputy RTO, Sanjeev Bhor, told TOI that autorickshaw services can start from the 18 operational metro stations as soon as permissions are granted. These shared autorickshaws can pick up passengers from any station up to a maximum distance of 9 km, and the fare will be divided equally among three passengers.

Pawar stressed on the need for monitoring if pick-up and drop services are to be implemented. He suggested the presence of traffic police or RTO inspectors to maintain order and highlighted that without proper space and oversight, chaos can result.

Anand Ankush, president of the Aam Aadmi Rickshaw Union, highlighted the difference between the existing permit for regular metered autorickshaw services and the permit required for shared services, which require a stage carrier permit. They said that shared services would result in less profits, and thus, they would continue with their current service under the MoU with MahaMetro.

Acknowledging the utility of PMPML buses, metro user Manish Joshi stressed on the need for faster decision-making, saying, PMPML buses are fine, but they will not help much in last-mile connectivity. It has to be shaped.