In a heart-wrenching incident that sheds light on the unintended consequences of government policies, a Bengaluru auto driver was seen in tears after collecting a meager sum of Rs 40/- during a five-hour shift. The plight of this auto driver serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by those working in the transportation sector due to the implementation of the free bus rides scheme by the newly formed Congress government in Karnataka.
The auto driver, who remains unidentified, shared his distressing experience of struggling to make ends meet despite working diligently from 8 am to 1 pm. The adverse impact of the free travel scheme, known as Shakti, aimed at benefiting women, has inadvertently affected the livelihoods of auto drivers and others in the transport industry.
A Bengaluru auto driver in tears after collecting just Rs 40/- from 8 am to 1 pm. This is the result of free bus rides given by the new Cong govt in #Karnataka .
Pushing people into poverty!!#freebiespic.twitter.com/T1t0XyLTCh— Megh Updates 🚨™ (@MeghUpdates) June 26, 2023
The introduction of the free bus rides scheme has resulted in a significant decline in passengers opting for auto-rickshaws and taxis as they can now travel without incurring any expenses on public buses. While the scheme has eased the financial burden on commuters, it has inadvertently pushed individuals working in the field of transportation into dire economic circumstances.
Auto drivers, who largely depend on daily earnings to support themselves and their families, have been hit the hardest by the decline in customers. The sharp decrease in their income has left many struggling to make ends meet and forced them into poverty. The auto driver’s tearful reaction stands as a powerful representation of the hardship faced by many in the profession.
Transportation workers play a vital role in ensuring smooth mobility and connectivity in the bustling city of Bengaluru. Their services are essential for commuters who prefer the convenience and flexibility offered by auto-rickshaws and taxis. However, the consequences of the free bus rides scheme have disrupted the delicate balance in the transportation ecosystem, leaving auto drivers grappling with severe financial challenges.
Additionally, the state-owned Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) is also grappling with significant financial losses as a result of the free bus rides scheme. The implementation of the Shakti scheme has led to a considerable decrease in revenue for the KSRTC, which heavily relies on passenger fares to sustain its operations.
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