The Sharad Rao-led autorickshaw union on Wednesdayday announced that 7.5 lakh autos will launch an indefinite state-wide agitation from April 16 for their demands, which include hike in the minimum fare.
"We want a new formula from the government. The CNG rates have gone up. It has become a losing proposition to drive an auto in face of rising inflation," Rao told PTI, announcing the agitation.
Rao's announcement came following the Bombay high Court recently upholding the state government's decision to enforce mandatory electronic meters. The union leaders met at Parel here on Wednesday to work out the modalities of the agitation seeking immediate hike in fares.
Rao said he would approach the apex court over the mandatory installation of e-meters, in an appeal against the HC order.
Rao's Mumbai Autorickshaw Men's Union had approached HC, seeking a withdrawal of the state’s notification of fitting mandatory e-meters from April 1 for three-wheelers.
The court had dismissed the petition, saying it did not find any merit in the plea.
Rao said his union would go on an indefinite strike from April 16 seeking a hike in the minimum fare from Rs 11 to Rs 16 and from Rs 7 to 9 for every additional kilometre.
