Rahul Gandhi Engages with Auto Rickshaw Drivers in Delhi to Discuss Challenges

Meeting with Auto Rickshaw Drivers

On Friday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi met with auto rickshaw drivers in central Delhi, sharing a meal with them. This informal gathering aimed to understand the challenges faced by transport workers in the national capital. Gandhi spent about thirty minutes on Todermal Road near Bengali Market, engaging with drivers who had gathered at Todermal Park. During this time, he listened to their concerns regarding rising costs, fuel prices, and decreasing incomes.

Discussion on Daily Struggles

The Congress MP was also seen having lunch with one of the auto drivers. This interaction took place in a busy area frequently used by local transport workers and passengers. Reports indicate that Gandhi discussed the daily hardships faced by drivers and the financial pressures impacting the transport sector.

Context of Rising Operational Costs

This visit comes at a time when commercial vehicle operators in Delhi and surrounding areas are expressing concerns over increasing operational costs and inadequate fare adjustments. In recent years, Rahul Gandhi has frequently organized similar outreach programs, where he has engaged with workers, laborers, delivery personnel, and drivers to discuss livelihood issues. This meeting follows a significant strike by transport unions in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) that took place from May 21 to 23.

Impact of Recent Strikes

The protests led to disruptions in various public transport services, including cabs and auto rickshaws, causing inconvenience for passengers across the NCR. Over 68 transport unions participated in the wheel jam protest under the banners of the All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC) and the United Front of All Transport Associations (UFTA).