Auto Unions Oppose RTC’s EV Auto Plan
RTC said the pilot project would begin with city services before being extended to other areas, aiming to attract more commuters to buses.
Hyderabad:The Telangana State Road Transport Corporation’s (TGSRTC) proposal to introduce e-autorickshaws for last-mile connectivity has raised questions about the fate of mini-buses introduced earlier with similar intent, now lying unused. Auto drivers’ unions and gig and platform unions have also opposed the plan.
On July 30, the corporation announced plans to introduce electric autorickshaws from designated bus stops to passengers’ doorsteps, with a single ticket covering the entire journey. RTC said the pilot project would begin with city services before being extended to other areas, aiming to attract more commuters to buses.
Autorickshaw unions see the move as a threat to their livelihood. Umar Khan, AITUC autorickshaw drivers union leader, said: “The Mahalakshmi scheme of free bus travel for women has already left autorickshaws with hardly any business. Now RTC’s plan to bring in e- autos for last-mile connectivity will push us into more difficulties.” Gig and platform unions also raised concerns. “We urged the corporation to integrate existing EV autos and ensure transparency on aggregator involvement. The proposed service should involve current auto drivers,” a representative said.
Asked about the scheme, an RTC officer on special duty told Deccan Chronicle: “The e-auto plan is in its initial stages. The government will take the final decision in favour of the public as well as autorickshaw drivers. Last-mile connectivity will encourage more people to use public transport.”
Criticism has also been directed at the corporation for the failure of its mini-bus service, introduced to reach areas inaccessible to larger buses. Around 60 Vajra mini-buses belonging to TGSRTC are currently not operating. A senior official, speaking anonymously, said: “The Vajra mini-bus service failed because they were air-conditioned. Faulty air-conditioning and constant breakdowns led to complaints.”
Officials said city mini-buses aimed to serve interior localities such as the Old City, Dilsukhnagar and Borabanda, but services were discontinued about a year ago due to traffic and operational difficulties. Lack of maintenance has left nearly half of the unused mini-buses in scrap condition. Transport experts have advised that the corporation sell them to generate revenue.