E-rickshaws- A relief for old City residents

The introduction of e-rickshaws might have provided sigh of relief among the local residents in Old City areas in the past nearly one year, but for the past few days, the presence of such vehicles have reduced on the roads as the drivers have staged multiple protests here, alleging that they are being harassed for no reasons, which is taking a heavy toll on them. On Monday also, the drivers appeared in the Srinagar’s press enclave and alleged that they are being challaned for no reasons and they are being asked to provide the permit for ferrying the passengers on some of the routes. However, they say no permit has been issued to them so far, which leads to their sufferings at present. The e-rickshaws not only brought relief to the Old City residents here but also provided an opportunity to the unemployed youth to earn their livelihood. Therefore, any obstacles in this regard would once again land them towards starvation. The government has done tremendous work by making every effort to pave the way for the unemployed youth to earn their livelihood and the introduction of e-rickshaws is one among them. But, the government needs to take strict measures in this regard and ensure strict action in both cases including any violations from the drivers or harassment to them. There is a need to investigate the matter and ensure that the efforts being made are not wasted. The Regional Transport Officer (RTO) also needs to look into the matter thoroughly to ascertain whether there is a need to intervene or some further amendments in route plan so that the e-rickshaw drivers could heave a sigh of relief.