Auto drivers want fare hike

Auto drivers want fare hike
Tuesday January 29 2008 01:48 IST

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BANGALORE: Autorickshaw drivers staged a demonstration in the city on Monday, demanding increase in minimum fare from Rs 12 to Rs 15.

Members of 21 autorickshaw drivers unions took part in the protest.

Adarsha Auto and Taxi Drivers Union president M Manjunath said three years ago the fare was increased from Rs 5 to Rs 6 per km when fuel was Rs 25 per litre.

"The fuel rate has increased to Rs 35 per litre, but the minimum fare has not. We are facing loss," he said.

They are also demanding facilities like provident fund, ESI and Yashaswini scheme for auto drivers.

The government should provide loan to install new electronic meters in autos.

"If our demands are not met, we will stage an indefinite strike from February 1," he said.

Deputy Commissioner (Bangalore urban) M A Sadiq said a decision on the demand for fare hike will be taken after a meeting on January 30.