Mangalore: Auto Drivers Seek Hike in Fares

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (SP)

Mangalore, Sep 29: A meeting on the issue of fare hike for auto rickshaws was held under the presidentship of Dakshina Kannada district deputy commissioner (DC), N S Chennappa Gowda, at the auditorium of his office on Wednesday September 28.

Responding to the demand for hike in fares mooted by different auto rickshaw drivers associations, the DC promised to look into their demands, and take a final decision after considering all the aspects including interests of the general public and fares prevalent in other parts of the state.

Delegates of different organizations of auto rickshaw drivers and operators pointed out that their demand for auto fare hike has been in the backburner since long. They said petrol prices have seen an upward revision a number of times after the last hike, and other costs have soared by 40 percent. While one of the organizations demanded the minimum auto fare to be raised to Rs 18, some others insisted on hiking it to Rs 20 or 21.

The representatives took umbrage to a remark, ‘daylight robbery’ passed by social worker, Sushil Noronha, while narrating that several auto drivers have been demanding higher fare than what is permitted, from passengers to ply to certain places.

During a heated debate that followed, the auto drivers wanted this term to be withdrawn. However, the DC intervened and pacified the agitated people. Norohna also drew the attention of the DC to the withdrawal of prepaid auto rickshaw facility.

Leaders of different auto rickshaw drivers associations like Vishwanath Shetty (BMS), L T Suvarna (CITU), Sudath Jain (All India Employees Association), Vishnumurthy, and others participated in the deliberations. Regional transport officer, Mallikarjun, and district superintendent of police, Labhu Ram, were present.