Auto, taxi unions call off proposed strike

The auto and taxi unions here today called off their proposed two-day strike today after meeting Delhi Transport Minister Gopal Rai and accepting his assurances on their demands.
Delhi Autorickshaw Sangh and Delhi Pradesh Taxi Union had threatened to take their vehicles off city roads on March 15 and 16 demanding stoppage of app-based cab services in Delhi.
"Various unions and their office bearers were satisfied with the discussions and assurance. The unions and their representatives unanimously decided to call off the proposed strike during the meeting," he said.
The leaders of auto and taxi unions said the strike, which was scheduled to start from tonight, has been called off following assurances by the Transport Minister.

"The minister's assurances on app based cabs, enhanced toll tax and relaxed norm for DL-1RT series taxis were acceptable to us and we decided not to go on strike. But if the government fails us, autos and taxis will be off road on the next car-free day in the city," said Rajendra Soni, General Secretary of auto and taxi unions.
Rai has assured the unions that wide publicity will be given by his department to prevent attachment of autos and taxis with "unauthorised app-based companies". The department will also strengthen the PUCHHO App for auto hiring, a senior government official said.

The Transport department has been directed by the minister to take up the issue with municipal corporation officials for waiver of toll tax on taxis registered in Delhi. The toll tax on taxis was recently hiked from Rs 60 to Rs 100.
The demand for strict norms for DL-1RT- Series with compulsory requirement of driving licence and PSV badge was also raised in the meeting. The Transport Minister has asked the department to look into the matter, the official said.