Ajay Mandal, an auto driver, shares his perspective on the challenges faced by the auto drivers community with the recent introduction of the free bus rides scheme for women in Telangana:

“As things were starting to get better after the challenges of COVID-19 and inflation, the free bus rides scheme for women hit us auto drivers like a curse. While we wholeheartedly support the empowerment of women, the introduction of free bus rides for women passengers in the state rides has dealt a blow to our livelihoods.

For over seventeen years, I’ve been navigating the streets as an auto driver, also actively participating in several social programs like TB awareness initiatives. I certainly appreciate societal progress but find ourselves at a crossroads, as our income, dependent on passengers, mainly women, has seen a drastic decline in just two days. Formerly earning 800 to 1000 rupees daily, we now struggle to reach 500 to 600 rupees.

Our commitment to the community is unwavering, and we’re not opposed to government initiatives. However, we earnestly hope for alternative provisions that consider the impact on auto drivers. We are the face of our towns and cities, always ready to serve, and we aspire to grow and progress alongside the community.”