KOCHI: The absence of autorikshaws from the roads in the city due to the strike by auto-taxi drivers on Thursday impacted commuters especially those landing in railway stations and bus terminals. Although various consumer organisations questioned the motive behind the strike, representatives of auto unions justified it. People who landed in Nedumbasserry International Airport also struggled to get a taxi as even prepaid counters were not functioning properly.
“The strike by autos is not justified as they are not operating by obeying the law”, said Dijo Kappen, managing trustee, Centre for Consumer Education. “None of the autorikshaws in Kochi are known for running on meters. So they do not have any moral right to go on a strike demanding an increase in fares”, he said. GK Pillai, general secretary of the Kerala Consumer Protection & Welfare Federation, said an increase in taxi and auto charges close on the heels of hike in water and electricity charges would make life miserable for the common people.
Ernakulam District Autorikshaw Driver’s Federation president Binu Vargheese said that workers alone should not be blamed for not running without meters. “Lack of infrastructure in the city is forcing autos to run without meters. Unlike Thiruvananthapuram or Kozhikode, roads in Kochi are clogged throughout the day and it would not be economically viable for autos to operate on meter charges alone”, he said. He added, “Authorities need to end traffic blocs or provide a system by which a reasonable premium above the meter can be charged.”
