Daily News Steering Column: Two stroke ban misinterpreted

Most three wheeler drivers and owners seem to have misinterpreted the Government's decisions regarding two-stroke two wheelers, to the extent that they are calling for the abolition of the 'ban'. What they don't realise is that there will absolutely be no ban on operating existing two-wheelers.

The ban will be on the import of two-stroke three-wheelers from next year. Spare parts can be imported till 2011. Four-stroke three wheelers are already widely available. Besides, two-strokes can be converted to four-strokes albeit at some cost.

However, in the long term the Government should consider phasing out three wheelers altogether. They are a blot on our ambition to be a front-ranking Asian economy and frankly, a pain to other motorists as they weave in and out of traffic with no concern for other road users.

They are also not regulated in any manner, so three wheeler drivers charge whatever amounts they fancy.

Before three wheeler importers, manufacturers and operators make a hue and cry about this suggestion, we can point out several alternatives. One is to encourage the local manufacturers/assemblers of motor vehicles to turn out a small, affordable vehicle with four wheels which can replace the ubiquitous three wheeler.

The State should grant concessions and incentives to this venture and also slash applicable duties.

India's biggest three wheeler maker Bajaj is close to manufacturing a four-wheeler which can perhaps replace their own three-wheelers. Tata is also working on a small, ultra-inexpensive car.

With a four-stroke three-wheeler costing nearly Rs.260,000, it makes sense if a proper four-wheeled taxi vehicle can be marketed at say, Rs.400,000 all told.

That would be an easy sum to manage even on a loan/lease basis. The long-term aim should be a regulated, reliable, safe, comfortable and affordable taxi service.