Transport minister R Ashoka has proposed to replace autorickshaws in Bangalore with the ultra-cheap people’s car, Nano. But autorickshaw drivers claim autos are the most preferred mode of transport for Bangaloreans and that Nano is not fit for use as private taxis in the city. They say they will not agree to any such proposal, even if the government offered subsidised loans. However, they would be open to replacing autos with Maruti cars, Adarsha Auto and Taxi Drivers Union president M Manjunath tells DNA.
What do you think about the entire concept of Nanos replacing autorickshaws in the city?
Nano as a vehicle is a failure. It is not suitable for passengers. Luggage cannot be carried in Nano. Passengers cannot travel in the Nano comfortably. Passengers any way do not travel by taxis because they are expensive. Even in other cities, private taxis are not doing well. If the government comes up with any such proposal, the autorickshaw drivers will oppose it.
What will you do if such a decision is indeed made?
This will not happen in Bangalore. We tried using the Nano as private taxis when it was launched in Bangalore, since it is the cheapest of cars. It was, in fact, considered as a replacement for autorickshaws. But the plan failed miserably.
Nano is not suitable for Bangalore. It does not offer satisfaction to customers since it offers very little room for passengers. Since the car’s engine is placed at the back, it can get damaged if the vehicle goes over too many road bumps or potholes.
We will protest against any such plans. Taxi drivers will also join us.
Will you agree to replace autorickshaws with Nanos if the government offers loans?
Many companies have come up with schemes to offer cheap loans for four-wheelers that can be used as taxis. But nothing can replace the autos in the city. They are cheap and the most preferred mode of transport for Bangaloreans.
But, we will not take any loan for four-wheelers even if it is offered by the government. Some time back, the government had introduced the ‘Garuda’ autorichshaw, which ran on diesel, in the city and had offered loans for those wanting to buy it. But there were hardly any takers. The scheme was an utter failure. About 4,000 drivers had taken the loan, but they are finding it difficult to repay it and get back their lands, which they had pledged as security.
Would you consider the proposal if the government offers to subsidise 25% to 50% of the investment for buying the car?
Could be considered for Maruti car, not Nano.
What welfare measures could the government implement?
We want the Rs10,000 subsidy being given to replace old vehicles with new ones to be hiked to Rs20,000. Also, there should be a subsidy for replacing old metres with new electronic ones. Besides, the minimum fare should be increased to Rs20 from the current Rs14. Private financiers trouble us a lot; we need protection from them.
