Siliguri, 06 August: E-rickshaw drivers gathered at Fulbari Battalion More on the Siliguri-Jalpaiguri National Highway to protest against the ban on unregistered e-rickshaws. The protest, involving drivers from Fulbari and neighboring areas, caused significant disruption as passengers were halted on the road.
Reports indicate that the police administration has banned unregistered e-rickshaws from main roads starting 01 August. In response, the drivers have staged protests, with major demonstrations occurring on both Monday and Tuesday.
The drivers, many from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, highlighted their financial struggles, particularly those who have taken loans to purchase their e-rickshaws. They questioned how they could repay these loans if prohibited from operating on the main roads.
The protesters demanded that they be allowed to operate in areas such as Fulbari, Naukaghat, Jalpai More, Thana More, and Medical areas. They also called for the issuance of registered numbers for their vehicles or the provision of alternative livelihood options.