Autorickshaw drivers in Bengalury say they are struggling to get rides

BENGALURU: Autorickshaw drivers in Bengaluru say they are struggling to make ends meet due to lack of passengers. Despite waiting for hours, they are unable to get bookings. The situation has become so dire that some drivers, on certain days, are waiting from 5 am to 12 am without getting a single booking.

The autorickshaw drivers say their daily earnings have drastically reduced. Earlier, they used to earn Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,000 per day, but now they struggle to earn even Rs 500 to Rs 800. The rise of bike taxis has severely impacted the auto business, they say.

Auto drivers usually wait at busy locations like Metro stations in Majestic, railway stations and bus stands, but are unable to get passengers. Despite waiting for hours, they are not getting bookings. Bike taxis, on the other hand, are getting more bookings.

Auto drivers are finding it challenging to manage their daily expenses, including school fees for their children. The cost of living has increased, and auto fares have not been revised accordingly. Drivers are urging the government to increase auto fares.

Many solo travellers are opting for bike taxis and even during peak hours, auto drivers are struggling to get rides. The situation has become so dire that some drivers are doing alternative work for their livelihood. Even though they are on the road driving autos for 18 hours a day, they are not getting any ride. It is becoming difficult to support their families.

The auto drivers are appealing to the government to crack down on unauthorised bike taxis, which they believe would help them regain some of their lost business.

Auto drivers say they spend 18 hours on the road, but are still unable to earn a decent income. The situation has become unbearable, they saiy and are appealing to the government for help.

Ayyappa, an auto driver said, “The life of auto drivers has become very bad. I start duty at 4 am and earn Rs 600 a day. I have to pay a Rs 9,000 loan. We have to manage housing expenses and school fees of children. If we for construction work, we can at least get Rs 3000 a week. We are struggling, but the government is doing nothing for auto drivers. Earlier, I was earning at least Rs 1,500 every day. Living in Bengaluru has become difficult for us”.