In order to make up for the losses they sustained as a result of the implementation of the Shakti plan, Bengaluru auto drivers in the city have requested that the government pay them each a payment of Rs 10,000 each month.
Several Bengaluru autos and taxi drivers lamented the government’s lack of initiative and interest in their deteriorating economic situation at a press conference on Wednesday in the city hosted by the Bangalore Auto Drivers Unions’ Federation.
Image Source: The Indian Express
Bengaluru auto drivers said that their incomes were already being eaten into by bike taxis, and now, the implementation of the Shakti scheme has exacerbated their situation, making it difficult for them to make ends meet. “Many drivers are struggling to pay rent, repay loans, and pay their children’s school fees because of these issues,” Manjunath, president of the federation, told Deccan Herald.
Bengaluru auto drivers cited the Congress party’s pre-election promises to taxi and auto drivers, including one to outlaw bike taxis. They criticised the lack of funding for this “disadvantaged” sector.
Image Source: The Hindu
In addition to these requests, the federation has urged the government to create a development corporation for unorganised commercial drivers and offer low-interest loans up to Rs 2 lakh through several government development boards.
On Thursday, federation members will meet with truck drivers and maxi cab drivers one more before submitting their proposal to the government.
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