Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Sep 4: The recent decision by Dakshina Kannada deputy commissioner (DC) Mullai Muhilan regarding auto rickshaw permit zones has been praised as commendable by Venkatesh Shetty Neerulige, the president of Nethravathi Auto Union. Speaking at a press conference held after a meeting to congratulate the DC, Shetty highlighted the challenges faced by rural auto drivers due to the zonal division of permits and urged the removal of this zoning system.

Shetty expressed hope that a favourable decision might be reached during the meeting led by the DC on September 5, which could address their concerns.

Praveen Kumar, president of the Pilikula Auto Rickshaw Owners' Association, Moodushedde Edurupadavu, emphasized the inconsistency in insurance and government fee payments for auto rickshaws across different zones. He noted that all auto rickshaws in the district pay the same insurance and government fees, yet the zonal division has created disparities. He lauded the current District Commissioner's decision, stating that it considers the difficulties faced by many poor auto drivers and owners.

The meeting was attended by several key figures, including Rajesh Neermarga, secretary of Nethravathi Auto Union; Santosh, deputy secretary of Shiva Shakti Auto Rickshaw Park; Vinod Raj, president of Swami Koragajja Auto Rickshaw Park; Prakash, president of Neermarga Auto Rickshaw Owners' Association; Kiran D'Souza, president of Goorapura Kaikamba Auto Rickshaw Owners' Association; Ramesh, president of Valachil Auto Rickshaw Owners' Association; Rajesh Nelson, and Vishwanath, president of Parari Auto Rickshaw Owners' Association, among others.