Thiruvananthapuram: The proposed auto-rickshaw and taxi strike scheduled for tomorrow in Kerala has been called off following an agreement reached between the government and joint trade union representatives during discussions with Transport Minister C P John.
The unions had demanded an increase in the minimum fare from the existing Rs 30 to Rs 50. The government has agreed in principle to revise the fares and decided to appoint a commission to study the proposed hike. The final fare structure will be determined based on the commission’s report. Union representatives and other organisations will also be allowed to present their views before the panel.
The last revision of auto-rickshaw and taxi fares in Kerala was announced on April 26, 2022. The government is taking steps to implement the revised fares from January 1, 2027, the minister said.
Apart from the fare revision, the government has also considered other demands, including providing rest facilities for drivers, extending Employees’ State Insurance (ESI) benefits to them and regulating two-wheeler taxis operating without yellow number plates.
The minister said the government would take favourable steps towards extending ESI benefits to auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers.
He also pointed out that several auto and taxi stands had disappeared following the development of national highways. Steps have been initiated to restore these stands, he added.
