Drivers on Dasara Holiday, Cabs, Autos Hit
Commuters are likely to face a shortage of autorickshaws, app-based cabs and bike taxis during the Dasara festival: Reports
HYDERABAD: Commuters are likely to face a shortage of autorickshaws, app-based cabs and bike taxis during the Dasara festival as thousands of drivers head to their hometowns. The frequency of TGSRTC city buses is also expected to decline as vehicles are diverted to operate special services to districts and neighbouring states.
Autorickshaw Joint Action Committee leader Pentiah Goud said a large number of drivers in Hyderabad hailed from Warangal, Karimnagar, Nizamabad and Mahbubnagar districts and would return home for the festival.
“There are around 1.2 lakh autorickshaws in the city. Several drivers transport schoolchildren on a monthly basis. With schools closed for the holidays, they take the opportunity to visit their native places,” he said.
The Telangana Gig and App-Based Workers' Union said bike taxi services would also be affected. “This is one of the biggest festivals. Drivers either leave for their hometowns or spend time celebrating with their families,” a union representative said.
City bus commuters are also likely to face longer waiting times as TGSRTC diverts part of its urban fleet to meet the surge in inter-district travel demand.
Airport-bound passengers have been advised to consider app-based cabs, prepaid taxis, car rentals or Pushpak airport buses, subject to availability.
Railway officials have deployed staff at Secunderabad, Hyderabad, Kacheguda, Lingampalli and Charlapalli stations to assist passengers. Autorickshaw pre-booking counters have also been arranged to help passengers find transport.