BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 2nd July 2024: Following the ban on registration of three-wheelers registrations in Agartala Municipal Corporation area under West district, the Tripura Electric Rickshaw Sramik Sangha submitted a five-point charter of demands to the Traffic Superintendent of Police (SP) calling for significant changes in the treatment of electric rickshaw drivers.
The Sangha’s initiative seeks to address several grievances faced by the workers. One member of the Sangha voiced concerns over harassment stating, “Traffic authorities should stop taking harassing pictures of electronic rickshaws. We demand fixed timings for passenger transfer at Battala, Motor Stand and Radhanagar, ensuring a smoother operation for our drivers.”
The demands include: Electric rickshaws should no longer be subjected to fines based on harassing photographs taken by traffic police personnel; Specific times should be allotted for passenger transfers at key locations such as Battala, Motor Stand, and Radhanagar; Provision of designated spots for passenger boarding and alighting within Agartala city and its suburbs; Electric vehicles should not be fined until the Transport department waives fitness fines; and Immediate cessation of the long detentions of poor workers at traffic points through the use of lockers.
A Sangha’s spokesperson emphasized, “The practice of long detentions and the imposition of fines without waiving fitness fees must be stopped. These measures unfairly target the most vulnerable workers among us.”
The deputation made a resolute march from Agartala’s Paradise Chowmuhani to the AD Nagar Traffic Office, showcasing their determination to have their voices heard. The Tripura Electric Rickshaw Sramik Sangha has also warned of escalating their agitation if their demands are not promptly addressed. “We will take to larger agitations if the traffic department fails to meet our demands,” a Sangha leader stated.
The demonstration highlights the growing discontent among electronic rickshaw drivers in Tripura, shedding light on the pressing need for fair treatment and supportive policies from traffic authorities.
