Thane, Aug. 24 -- Commuters in Thane could soon skip the usual fare bargaining with auto-rickshaw drivers, with the Thane RTO planning to start a prepaid auto stand at Thane railway station. The proposed service will allow passengers to pay a fixed fare for their destination before being allotted an auto-rickshaw. The proposal has been submitted to the state government following discussions between Thane MLA Sanjay Kelkar, the Thane Traffic Police and the RTO. Approval for the proposal is expected to be granted today. Hemangini Patil, RTO, Thane, said the fares for destinations within about 6-8km of the station have already been finalised. Speaking to HT, Patil said, "A proposal has already been sent to the Transport Commissioner, and we are awaiting approval. Coordination with the local police and Central Railway is also in its final stage. We are ready with all the planning and infrastructure and can start the service immediately after approval. This facility will significantly reduce the hassles and disputes faced by local passengers while hiring auto-rickshaws." Once approved, passengers arriving at Thane station will provide their destination, pay the prescribed fare and be allotted an auto-rickshaw. The system is intended to prevent fare bargaining, arbitrary charges, refusals and disputes over destinations. Kelkar said the move was aimed at addressing frequent complaints from passengers. Megha Ghatge, a Ghodbunder resident, said, "If implemented, it would be a great relief for residents. At present, leaving aside the issue of autos, we don't even get Ola or Uber cabs to drop us at Ghodbunder from the railway station. We demand more such services from prominent places in Thane." Additionally, the RTO will also deploy two officials at the station during peak morning and evening hours to monitor auto-rickshaw operations and address complaints of misbehaviour, officials said. The officials will work four-hour shifts. The move is aimed at improving discipline among auto-rickshaw drivers and managing traffic around the station....