Thousands of taxis and auto rickshaws stayed off the roads here today in response to a day-long strike to protest the government's decision to phase out taxis over 25-years old.
"The strike has received complete support across the city and approximately 55,000 taxis and 1.5 lakh rickshaws will stay off the roads today," said Sharad Rao, leader of Mumbai Autorickshaw-Taximen's Union.
"The Union has given the strike call to protest the Maharashtra government's decision to phase out taxis which are over 25-years old, besides other issues," he told PTI.
The phasing out of the existing taxis, a majority of which are of the 'Premier Padmini' make, was wrong since the emission norms prescribed were being met by the vehicles, the Union said.
It also alleged the phasing out scheme was a ploy which allowed "some persons" to take money from taxi drivers.
Despite the Maharashtra government forming a committee to look into the issue and other matters like introduction of electronic meters in autorickshaws, no solution has been worked out yet, Rao said.
Other demands of the Union include a hike in fares, making electronic meters optional, exemptions from paying toll tax and professional tax for taxi drivers, abolition of fleet taxis and providing facilities for taxi drivers at city airports.
The striking union members are expected to meet Deputy Chief Minister R R Patil, Transport Commissioner and other authorities regarding their resolutions and demands.
