From June 18, 2013, there is a possibility that auto drivers in Mumbai, Thane and Navi Mumbai might go off roads for an indefinite period of time. Auto drivers are asking for a hike in fares, among other demands. Sharad Rao, Auto union leader, threatened with an indefinite strike across Maharashtra if their demands for a fare revision were not accepted by the state government.
They are claiming that strike will continue for an indefinite period of time if the demands for a fare revision, among other issues, are not accepted. More than 15,000 auto drivers, as well as BEST, BMC staffers and hawkers, will be taking part in the protest from Byculla zoo to Azad Maidan in order to draw attention to their demands. Sources said that Auto and BEST services will most likely be affected, to a certain extent, on that day.
On June 4, 2013, auto union leader, Sharad Rao, said, “There is a proposal to introduce Quadricycles (small cars in lieu of autos) and six-seater taxis in the state. We are opposed to this”. Apart from fares, the union is also opposing to the 16-year age limit for autos. Auto union leader explained that autos run on green fuel and can also be in a good condition, even after 16 years.
