New Delhi: Auto unions differ on the demand of fare hike
Delhi Government has constituted an 11-member committee to look into the demand of fare hike. However, some unions feel that the Kejriwal government is favouring Ola and Uber.
In Short
- The unions have demanded fare hike which they say hasn't happened since 2013
- Unions are urging Delhi Government committee to hike fare as per their demand
- Some unions alleged that Delhi government is secretly helping app-based taxi services
The Delhi government has constituted an 11-member committee to look into the demand of different autorickshaw unions for an increase in fare. The committee has to get back to the government with its report within 30 days.
According to the instructions of the Delhi transport minister, this committee will not only recommend an increase in auto fares but in the fare of mini-RTV buses, Metro feeder service, rural service, Maxi cabs, Fatafat service and eco-friendly service as well.
The committee is headed by the special commissioner (transport) Anil Banka. On July 23, auto drivers had met Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal and demanded a hike in fares. The auto drivers had said that their fares were not hiked since 2013, despite an increase in CNG rates, insurance premiums and other expenses.
State Transport Authority (STA) Operators Integration Forum spokesperson Shyamlal Gola said: "For the past nine years, the fares of these small transport vehicles, including mini RTV, have not been increased and now the committee should take a decision according to the demand for hike in fares."
About 1,00,000 autos run in Delhi at the time. The unions have demanded that up to 1 km, the rent should be Rs 25 and thereafter it should be Rs 10 per km.
However, some organisations have raised questions on the government's motive. Kishan Verma, All Delhi Auto Taxi Transport Congress Union president, said that the app-based taxi services the be benefitted if rent is increased. Rajendra Soni from Delhi Auto Sangh also alleged that the Kejriwal government is not listening to their demands and are helping Ola and Uber make profits.
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