SRINAGAR: The decision by the Jammu and Kashmir Transport Department to fix e-rickshaw fares at Rs 10 per kilometre per vehicle or Rs 2.50 per kilometre per passenger has sparked discontent among rickshaw drivers.
The drivers argue that the rates are inadequate to sustain their livelihoods, particularly amidst escalating inflation and rising operational costs.
Rickshaw drivers across Srinagar have expressed frustration, labelling the fixed fare structure as “unfair and impractical.” They contend that the current rates fail to account for increasing expenses, including vehicle maintenance, battery replacement, and daily household needs.
“With these rates, we can barely make ends meet,” said Ghulam Nabi, a 45-year-old e-rickshaw driver from Srinagar. “The cost of living is skyrocketing. Even basic necessities like food and fuel are getting more expensive every day. How are we supposed to survive on such low earnings?”
Drivers have highlighted the significant costs associated with operating an e-rickshaw. “A battery replacement alone costs tens of thousands of rupees, and it doesn’t last forever,” said Asif Ahmad, another driver. “At these rates, we can’t save anything for such expenses.”
They also emphasised that inflation has severely impacted their household budgets. “Everything, from cooking gas to vegetables, has become more expensive. We barely have enough left for our families after a day’s work,” said Shabir Khan, a father of three.
The drivers have called on the government to reconsider the fare structure and introduce rates that better reflect their financial struggles. (KNT)
