Madurai autorickshaw drivers petition Collector over income loss from ‘Vetri Payanam’ bus scheme
Autorickshaw drivers in Madurai have petitioned the District Collector regarding financial losses caused by the government's 'Vetri Payanam' free bus scheme for women. The drivers are requesting a formal review and potential financial support to mitigate the impact on their livelihoods.
Why it matters
This illustrates the tension between public welfare initiatives and the economic stability of informal sector workers who compete with subsidized public services.
The Tholkappiyar Autorickshaw Drivers Welfare Association, representing over 100 auto drivers in the district, has raised concerns over severe economic distress stemming from the Tamil Nadu government’s ‘Vetri Payanam’ initiative, a no fare bus travel for women.
While acknowledging the social intent behind expanding public transit access for women, drivers after submitting a petition with the District Collector Nishant Krishna here on Monday noted that the scheme had delivered an unintended blow to their daily earnings, particularly for those operating routes that run parallel to major bus corridors.
For drivers in Madurai, many with over 15 years of experience, autorickshaw driving is the sole source of income covering daily essentials such as food, rent, children’s education, and medical bills.
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