Relieved to have cars back on road: Drivers of diesel vehicles
The permits are issued for a five-year period, after which they are given an extension of up to three years.
Drivers said they have to eventually deal with the possibility of selling their vehicles at low prices.
Drivers of diesel vehicles expressed relief at the relaxation of the ban announced by the Supreme Court Tuesday.
“I finally took my cars out on the roads today. It is a great relief for all of us. I have resumed work with the private company I lend my cabs to, though I have suffered a week’s worth of losses since the April 30 ban,” said Arif Khan, owner of a fleet of 10 diesel cabs.
However, as per the apex court’s order Tuesday, cabs with All-India Tourist Permits can ply till their permits expire.
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The permits are issued for a five-year period, after which they are given an extension of up to three years.
“I bought my cab three years ago. I have only two years left till my permit expires. According to the rules, I will not be given an extension nor will I be allowed to convert my car for private use. I will have to sell it off eventually but I know I will get a pittance for it,” said Sandeep Kumar, who owns a commercial car.
Drivers said they have to eventually deal with the possibility of selling their vehicles at low prices.
“I will leave this profession after my permit expires next year. I have borrowed money to clear the loans I took for the car but I don’t think I will have enough money to buy a new CNG vehicle. I plan to work at my uncle’s shop till I can save up enough money,” said Harinder Singh, a driver.
In a statement, cab aggregator Ola said, “We welcome the decision of the Honourable Supreme Court. The proposed phased roll-out by EPCA and the government will help salvage the livelihood of tens of thousands of drivers in Delhi/NCR. Ola is committed to CNG adoption in Delhi/NCR and currently has over 30,000 CNG vehicles on the platform.”
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