Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SP)

Udupi, Sep 10: Udupi Consumers' Forum, which has been throbbing to the problems faced by autorickshaw users since long, has written to union minister Oscar Fernandes, urging him to ensure that the autorickshaw drivers in the city use metres in their vehicles. This gains significance because of the fact that Oscar Fernandes continues to be the president of the Udupi Rickshaw Drivers Association since long.

Through the letter, Forum convener Damodar Aithal has stated that Oscar has in the past, has shown his concern for consumers. People from all backgrounds and ages use autorickshaws. Hence they are an important section of consumers, he said and sought support of the minister to the cause of these consumers.

The Forum, while appreciating Oscar's efforts to formulate schemes for the benefit of rickshaw drivers, has reminded him, that having been in a responsible post, he knows well for himself, that ensuring that the auto metres in the city run properly, is his responsibility.

Although fixing of metres was made mandatory many years ago, auto drivers of the city are reluctant to follow the requirement, while their counterparts in Dakshina Kannada district are scrupulously following this rule. The drivers, who had agreed to install metres two years ago when they were allowed to fix rickshaw fares a little higher rate than other places, have failed to run them till today. Several drivers charge exorbitantly and quarrel with passengers if they complain. Being the president of their association, you should intervene and provide justice to the consumers, the Forum has requested.

The Forum has reiterated its commitment to continue with its struggle till the consumers’ rights are recognized and metres start functioning in all the autos in the city.