Harish Rao interacts with auto drivers, questions Congress over unfulfilled promises

Former Telangana minister and BRS leader T. Harish Rao took an auto-rickshaw ride from Gokul Theatre to Telangana Bhavan on Monday to personally understand the struggles of auto drivers. During his journey, he interacted with several drivers and inquired about their living conditions, financial challenges, and the government’s implementation of its election promises.

Drivers express frustration over unkept promises

Auto drivers shared their disappointment with Harish Rao, saying that none of the promises made by the Congress government in its 2023 election manifesto have been fulfilled. They said the government had assured financial assistance, fuel subsidies, and relaxation in loan installments for auto drivers, but none of these commitments have materialized.

Financial struggles on the rise

Drivers highlighted the steep rise in living costs and the lack of stable income as major issues. One driver said, “We’re unable to pay rent or afford our children’s school fees.” Another pointed out that many are struggling to repay loans taken to purchase their vehicles, pushing them deeper into debt.

Harish Rao, after listening to their concerns, said that auto drivers play a crucial role in the city’s transport system and deserve stronger government support.

Criticism of the Congress government

The former minister accused the Congress government of deceiving the public with false promises. “Making promises and not fulfilling them has become a habit for Congress,” he remarked, adding that the government has completely failed to address the problems faced by auto drivers. His interaction with the drivers drew public attention across Hyderabad.

What Congress promised auto drivers in 2023

In its “Abhaya Hastham” manifesto, the Congress party had pledged several welfare measures for auto drivers, including:

• Strengthening the Auto Drivers’ Welfare Board.

• Providing medical insurance, pension, and accident coverage for families.

• Offering educational scholarships or fee reimbursements for drivers’ children.

• Granting annual financial assistance of ₹12,000 to every auto driver.

• Ensuring social security through a dedicated welfare board.

No progress on implementation

Despite these promises, not a single commitment has been implemented so far. Moreover, the launch of the Mahalakshmi free bus travel scheme for women has further impacted auto drivers, as their daily income has dropped sharply. While the scheme benefits women passengers, it has unintentionally hurt the livelihoods of thousands of auto drivers across the state.