MUSHEERABAD, TRINET NEWS, SEPTEMBER 5:
The Joint Action Committee (JAC) of auto and app-based transport unions has strongly opposed the proposal to integrate autos and cabs with RTC and Metro services under the guise of first and last mile connectivity.
Heated arguments broke out during a meeting held on Saturday at RTC Bhavan with Transport Commissioner Ilambarithi, RTC MD Nagireddy, and MeeSeva Commissioner Ravikiran. The RTC MD proposed a system allowing passengers to travel by bus, metro, and auto using a single ticket via MeeSeva, while the Transport Commissioner explained its details.
However, JAC leader Ravishankar questioned how the proposal arose now, noting that during discussions with the Transport Minister and Commissioner on August 23, it was stated in writing that there was no auto connectivity proposal in the RTC. He made it clear that a third-party intermediary is not needed regarding the livelihood of auto drivers.
JAC leaders Maraiah and Venkatesham stated that while issues like increasing auto meter charges and the welfare board GO ought to have been discussed, holding a meeting solely on connectivity was inappropriate. Mallesh Goud, Praveen, and Saleem demanded the seizure of white-plate bikes operated by Ola, Uber, and Rapido.
Protesting the government's dual stance, leaders from BMS, BRTU, INTUC, AITUC, CITU, TUCI, IFTU, and BRS boycotted the meeting. Afterward, JAC leaders staged a protest.
JAC leaders warned that if their issues are not resolved, auto and private transport workers will launch a statewide strike.
