Metro India News | Hyderabad

Hundreds of Swachh Auto rickshaw workers under the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) allege that the transport department officials have been seizing their vehicles and levying hefty fine.

For over 30 years, these workers have been collecting garbage from households, playing a crucial role in maintaining cleanliness. The workers say that they are unable to pay the transport department and find it hard to make both ends meet. The workers collect Rs 150 from each household but many delay in payments and that adds to their burden.  

Many workers had purchased Swachh Autos with government subsidies, but they are now struggling to pay transport taxes. Authorities have imposed fines ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1,00,000, making it difficult for workers to sustain their income. Additionally, the seizure of vehicles has led to disruptions in garbage collection, causing waste accumulation and sanitation issues in residential areas.

Previously, the GHMC Commissioner had temporarily resolved similar issues by coordinating with RTO officials, but the absence of a permanent government order (GO) has allowed the problem to resurface. Workers are now unable to manage daily expenses, vehicle maintenance, children’s education, and medical needs.

Facing severe financial difficulties, Swachh Auto rickshaw workers under the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) have sought the intervention of GHMC Deputy Mayor Srilatha Shobhan Reddy.