Maharashtra: Autorickshaw services across the state are likely to face disruptions on April 8, as auto unions have called for a 'morcha' at the Regional Transport Office (RTO) premises. In Mumbai, the main protest is set to take place outside the Andheri RTO.

Commuters who depend on autorickshaws for their morning commute to school or office are advised to plan ahead and make alternative travel arrangements.

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What Are Auto Unions Demanding?

At the centre of the protest is a fee structure that drivers say is anything but welfare. To enrol in the state's driver welfare scheme, introduced around a year ago, drivers are required to pay Rs 500 as a joining fee and Rs 300 as an annual fee, taking the total to Rs 800, according to The Times of India.

Speaking to TOI, Union leader Shashank Rao said that the fee is 'unreasonable ', especially when several other welfare boards in the state charge a nominal registration fee of as low as one rupee.

"Is this for our welfare or for the transport department's welfare?" he said, adding that drivers already bear heavy financial burdens, including permit costs, annual compliance, and vehicle maintenance. Adding more fees under the name of welfare, he argued, defeats the purpose of its own existence.

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Adding to the anger are allegations from drivers that they are being unofficially pressured to pay the Rs 800 fee before their fitness certificates are cleared or transport-related documents are processed, the report added.

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Advisory For Commuters

With autorickshaw services across the state likely to face disruptions on April 8, especially in Mumbai, commuters are advised to prepare in advance to minimise inconvenience.

- Avoid relying solely on autorickshaws

- Consider alternatives such as cabs, BEST buses, or the metro

- If you have early commitments, medical visits, school runs, or office, allow extra time or make an alternative arrangement in advance

- Keep an eye on updates from the auto unions on April 8


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