Mumbai auto drivers raise voice against RTO officials

Over 1,000 auto drivers protested at the Western Regional Transport Office (RTO) at Andheri on Wednesday to register the department’s callous attitude towards them.

Shashank Rao, son of auto union leader Sharad Rao, organised the protest to register auto drivers’ complaints, which he alleged, were being ignored by the officers despite several communications.

Shashank Rao said the protest was to complain about three crucial issues: slow pace of issuance of identity cards to the drivers, almost forceful issuance of smart cards at the time of renewal of manual licenses and the startling confluence of private agents and officials.

“About 500 auto drivers fill forms everyday but the officials issue only 70-80 identity cards. Also, whenever the drivers go for renewal of licenses, they are forced to take smart cards, which are compulsory only for new license holders. The private agents are favoured and auto drivers, who belong to the union, are harassed,” said Shashank.

A delegation met the RTO officials. They were assured that a monthly meeting will be held between the RTO and union office-bearers. Also, action will be taken against agents and other matters will be looked into.

“The BEST should re-start the drivers’ training school”, he said and lambasted the BEST administration and former general manager Uttam Khobragde for mismanagement. This will ensure that better trained drivers drive BEST buses.