e-rickshaw operators in Biswanath district seek government assistance

BISWANATH CHARIALI: In view of the lockdown across the country, the e-rickshaw drivers operating in and around Biswanath Chariali town in Biswanath district have been compelled to face a difficult situation these days.

A meeting was held here recently maintaining social distancing to discuss the issue in the presence of the representatives of social organizations under the aegis of Biswanath Town E-Rickshaw Association and also to put pressure on the State Government to resolve the issues in the greater interest of around 450 families of local educated youths engaged in the trade.

The association raised a charter of demands at the meeting. Their demands included immediate approval of a loan of Rs 30,000 to each operator from the government to meet the cost of maintenance of the e-rickshaws that had to be kept idle at home during the early phases of lockdown. The association also demanded moratorium in loans availed by the e-rickshaw operators from the micro-finance companies because the companies were allegedly putting pressure on them to repay the loans. Likewise, the operators are unable to pay the required tax to Biswanath Municipality during the financial year of 2020-21 on account of their poor financial condition. The speakers discussed the problems thoroughly at the meeting and urged the authorities to take necessary action in a positive manner.

The meeting was attended by Biswanath Chariali Nagarik Sabha secretary Bidyut Sharma, Biswanath district AAGSU president Dilip Gajirel and others.

Also watch: Evening Bulletin | 13th June, 2020