Task force to study e-rickshaw drivers’ problems, says Rai

According to Rai, there are three positive aspects about e-rickshaws. “They created a potential for self-employment, they are environment-friendly and they have put a lid on many a social evil as a number of boys who were earlier engaged in committing petty crimes took to a respectable job.”

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E-rickshaw drivers protested outside Kejriwal’s house in Kaushambi on Tuesday urging the government to allow them ply their vehicles. However, for this to happen, rickshaws have to be purchased from only two manufacturers who were given clearance to ply on 70-identified routes in the capital. More manufacturers are awaiting clearance from the Delhi government and the Centre.

“Many of the e-rickshaw drivers whose vehicles don’t have clearance had taken loans to start their business. They are now indebted and unemployed,” Rai said.

He said the government will also engage with the Centre over the issue. “At our end, we will do what we can and will work the rest out with the Centre,” Rai said.

Will try to bring traffic police under Delhi govt: Rai

Transport minister Gopal Rai said that the Delhi government will try to bring the traffic police under the Delhi government so that it can work in tandem with the Transport department.

“We will have a meeting with the Joint Commissioner (Traffic) soon and we will work out some solutions. We are also undertaking research in cities like Chandigarh that have very good traffic management systems.” he said.

Will keep veggie prices stable
Gopal Rai, who also holds the development portfolio, said the government was endeavouring to cut down price escalation that takes place between selling a farmer’s produce and its purchase by a consumer.

“We will identify and bring down all barricades that lead to increase in prices of vegetables. With summer arriving soon, the prices of some goods are expected to rise but we are trying to control this,” Rai said. ENS