Auto, Cab Drivers on Indefinite Stir From Aug. 24

Hyderabad: The Telangana State Auto and App-based Unions joint action committee (JAC) has announced an indefinite strike by autorickshaw, school van and cab drivers from August 24, alleging that the state government had failed to fulfil its promises to transport workers.

At a meeting of transport unions here, the JAC alleged that the government remained indifferent to the problems faced by autorickshaw drivers following the introduction of free bus travel for women on RTC buses. It claimed that some autorickshaw drivers had died by suicide due to the impact on their livelihoods.

The JAC also opposed the proposed introduction of e-autorickshaws in the RTC sector, saying the move would affect the livelihoods of autorickshaw drivers.

Ravishankar Alluri, All India general secretary of the Bharatiya Private Transport Mazdoor Mahasangh (BPTMM), said, “Autorickshaw, school van and cab drivers have been forced to launch an indefinite strike, which will continue until the government addresses their demands.” The JAC demanded that the state government immediately withdraw its decision to introduce e-autos through the RTC and establish the welfare board for auto and private transport workers as previously promised.

It also sought immediate disbursement of the announced annual financial assistance of `12,000 to autorickshaw drivers, including arrears, and continuation and effective implementation of the `5 lakh accident insurance scheme announced by the previous government.

The JAC demanded an immediate ban on illegal app-based bike services and strict action against the companies involved. It also sought an official government app and revision of autorickshaw and cab meter rates in line with rising prices of essential commodities and fuel, saying workers must earn a minimum income to live with dignity.

Representatives of the Telangana State Auto and App-based Unions JAC, BMS, AITUC, INTUC, School Van Drivers Union and Cab Drivers Union attended the meeting.