Autorickshaw drivers urge DC to raise minimum fare to Rs 24

Autorickshaw drivers urge DC to raise minimum fare to Rs 24

Mangalore Today Network

Mangalore Dec 12, 2012:  Representatives of four autorickshaw drivers associations of Mangalore have placed forth a demand before  Deputy Commissioner N Prakash  to increase the minimum auto fare from the present Rs 17 to Rs 24. A memorandum in this regard was submitted by the  Mangalore City Auto Rickshaw Drivers Union, Federation of Karnataka Auto Rickshaw Drivers Union DK District, Karnataka Rakshana Vedike Auto Rickshaw Unit and Motor and General Mazdur Sangha on December 11, Tuesday.

The Union representatives were participating in a meeting convened by the administration to discuss the demand put forth to hike auto fares. The meeting which was scheduled to begin at 5 pm, however began almost two hours behind schedule following the failure of the officials to arrive on time. The delay had in turn tested the patience of the auto drivers who had to wait for long.

Some of the other demands placed forth include  fixing the fare of Rs 16 per every km after the minimum fare and a 20 per cent hike in charges for waiting time and extra luggage.

LT Suvarna, General Secretary of the Federation of Autorickshaw Drivers Union made a strong case for fare revision by stating that the autorickshaw drivers were unable to  manage due to the high fuel price, repair charges and spare parts.

Deputy Commissioner N Prakash assured to consider the demands of the autorickshaw drivers and take a decision at the earliest.