BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 3rd October 2023 : In a determined display of solidarity, the Tripura Private Transport Mazdoor Mahasangha orchestrated a protest march along the highways, voicing their 11-point demands aimed at improving the conditions of private transport workers in the state. Commencing from Rabindra Bhavan, the procession wove through various routes of the city, culminating in a delegation meeting with the Transport Commissioner.
The central demands of the organization focus on bolstering the welfare of private transport workers in Tripura. They advocate for the establishment of a Transport Workers Welfare Board, provision of pension benefits, ESIC, P.F., and other entitlements akin to those available in other states. Additionally, they urged the Tripura government to promptly revoke the prevailing rule imposing a Tk 50 daily fine as fitness fee, and instead, institute a protocol for seamless ownership transfer of resold e-rickshaws. The organization also called for the adoption of a uniform transport law across the nation.
Furthermore, the protestors called for an extension of the vehicle registration period from the current 15 years to 20 years, asserting that this change would be more aligned with the needs of the industry. They proposed the implementation of a road permit system tailored for electric autos such as Piago and Tio, insisting that this system should encompass all electric autos sold. Additionally, they called for the expedited discontinuation of auto rickshaw permits and advocated for the issuance of fresh permits for the sector. The demand to extend auto rickshaw permits from Ambasa to Kamalpur by an additional 15 kilometers was also emphasized.
Asim Dutta, the All India President of Tripura Private Transport Majbut Sangh, issued a stern warning, threatening to escalate the movement if their demands were not met promptly. He emphasized that the welfare and rights of private transport workers should be given the priority they deserve.
The protest serves as a resounding call for reforms in Tripura’s private transport sector, with workers united in their pursuit of better conditions and rights. The ball now rests in the court of the authorities to address these concerns and pave the way for a more equitable and sustainable transport industry in the state.
