Rural Auto Owners Demand Uniform Permits for Autorickshaws in Dakshina Kannada

Key Highlights:
•    Rural autorickshaw owners in Dakshina Kannada demand uniform permits to enter cities without penalties.
•    Hefty fines of up to Rs 10,000 currently imposed on rural drivers crossing city limits.
•    Union also advocates for social security benefits and better facilities for autorickshaw drivers.

In Mangaluru, autorickshaw drivers and owners in the rural parts of Dakshina Kannada are voicing their demand for uniform permits. These permits would allow their autorickshaws to enter cities without facing penalties. Currently, drivers from rural areas are compelled to pay hefty fines of up to Rs 10,000 if caught while entering city limits.

The situation has prompted the Dakshina Kannada District Auto Drivers Union to take action. They insist that the Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) should issue uniform permits for all autorickshaws, regardless of whether they operate in urban or rural zones. 

The lack of uniformity in permits creates challenges for drivers, especially when crossing city boundaries. To emphasize their demand, the union has threatened to hold a protest if relief is not granted.

Abdul Jaleel, the secretary of the Dakshina Kannada District Auto Drivers Union, stated that they plan to submit a memorandum to the authorities, urging uniform permits for autorickshaws in both urban and rural areas. 

Currently, separate permits are issued based on the vehicle’s operating zone. Rural autorickshaws are restricted from entering cities, and vice versa. The imposition of penalties by RTO authorities has made life difficult for these drivers. If their demand is not met, they intend to organize a protest.

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In addition to uniform permits, the union advocates for other improvements:

Inclusion in Unorganized Sector Labor Category: Autorickshaw drivers should be recognized as part of the unorganized sector laborers by the labor department.

Social Security Schemes: They seek the extension of social security benefits such as provident fund, ESI (Employee State Insurance), and pension to autorickshaw drivers.

Parking Facilities and Gas Stations: Proper parking facilities at autorickshaw stands and gas stations at 10 km intervals along roads are also part of their demands.

CMV360 Says

The struggle for uniform permits highlights the challenges faced by rural autorickshaw owners and drivers, and their determination to seek fair treatment and improved conditions for their livelihoods.