India, March 10 -- The Maharashtra government on Monday suspended the issuance of new autorickshaw permits across the state, citing rising pollution and traffic congestion in urban areas. State transport minister Pratap Sarnaik said the suspension will remain in place until the state cabinet decides on fresh criteria and norms for granting new permits.

A statement from Sarnaik's office said about 1.4 million autorickshaw permits have been issued across Maharashtra so far. With vehicle numbers rising sharply in major cities, the Centre has advised states to regulate the issuance of new permits, taking into account local transport demand and traffic conditions.

State governments have the authority to decide on autorickshaw permits in citi...