Autorickshaw strike deferred till September 30

Mumbai, Sep 3 (UNI) The proposed strike called by autorickshaw drivers union against installation of electronic meters and printers in the rickshaws was today deferred till September 30, after an assurance by Maharashtra Minister for Environment Dharmarao Baba Atram.

The strike was scheduled for September 5 and 6 across the state.

Speaking at a news conference here, Union leader Sharad Rao said ''The Minister assured us that a decision will be taken on the issue after consultation with the Chief Minister, and till then the rule will not be implemented.'' He said it is not possible to install electronic meters and printers in the autorickshaws as it is very costly and needs high maintenance.

The autorickshaw drivers plying all over the state are against the rule of installing electronic meters and had planned a strike on September 5 and 6 against the same, he informed.

Mr Rao said that if a favourable decision has not reached till September 30, a strike will be announced pressing for their demands.

UNI