MUMBAI: The transport department is exploring the option of controlling recalibration of auto and taxis using remotes. The move would mean no more opening meter seals, removing meter boxes and wasting three days as it would be possible to complete the process in a couple of hours, a source said. Besides, auto and taxi drivers could be spared of paying huge amounts to recalibration agents.

The department has reportedly sought help from IT expert to develop the technology which will enable recalibration with the help of foolproof remote devices. Meters are recalibrated whenever there is a fare hike. Recently, the meters of over one lakh autos and 42,000 taxis were recalibrated after the MMRTA announced a fare hike of Rs 2.

“At present, recalibration costs anywhere between Rs 500 and Rs 2,000. The process requires two-three days, which results in drivers losing another Rs 2,000,” said an official. “If the meters can be recalibrated without opening the seal and box, it will save time, manpower and money. Recalibrating meters using remote controls should take two hours. The remotes will be controlled by the RTO,” an official said.

But to use such a technology, all the meters will have to be modified. “We are exploring the possibility of creating a prototype with the help of IT experts and then consult with meter manufacturers. If we mange to manufacture such meters soon, they will be installed in the 7,800 new taxis, permits for which will be released through a lottery next week,” said a senior official, requesting anonymity.

But a meter repairer said, “It will be challenging for the RTO to get meters whose settings can be controlled with a remote device. Also, if one can change settings using a remote device, it can be misused to tamper readings.”

An RTO official said a foolproof mechanism will be ensured so that settings are not tampered with. He said the department was still exploring the option and nothing had been finalized. The department is also planning to instal GPS in the new taxis so that they can be booked using a mobile app and tracked.

