Auto drivers demand fare hike, fuel parity; take out march in city

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:

Autorickshaw drivers took out a march from Kranti Chowk on Monday afternoon, raising demands including a fare hike for sharing and meter rickshaws, parity in LPG, CNG and petrol prices, display of available fuel stock, and issuance of fuel bills. A memorandum was later submitted to the district collector.

Members of several organisations, including Shiv Sena (UBT) Maharashtra Vahtuk Sena, Bhim Sena Rickshaw Sanghtana, Marathwada Rickshaw Sanghtana, Akhil Bharatiya Chhava Sanghatana and others, participated in the protest. Leaders and drivers raised slogans highlighting their demands.

Key demands:

— Immediate allocation of designated rickshaw stands after a city survey by civic and transport authorities

—- Pickup and drop points for sharing rickshaws

—- Fixed routes for e-rickshaws

—- Relaxation in online penalties

—- Vehicle and fitness inspections to be conducted only by RTO officials

—- Action against unauthorised passenger transport buses

— Verification of hydro testing certificates

Photo caption:

Autorickshaw drivers raise slogans during a march from Kranti Chowk on Monday.