Tue Aug 05 16:59:58 UTC 2025: ## Visakhapatnam Autorickshaw Drivers Protest Free Bus Scheme, Demand Government Support

**Visakhapatnam, August 5, 2025** – Members of the Visakha Autorickshaw Drivers Union, backed by the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU), held a protest in Visakhapatnam on Tuesday, demanding clarity from the State Government regarding support for autorickshaw drivers in light of the upcoming free bus travel scheme for women, slated to begin on August 15th.

The drivers voiced concerns that the free bus travel initiative will severely impact their livelihoods. Protesters chanted slogans, calling for the immediate disbursement of ₹15,000 in financial assistance under the ‘Vahana Mitra’ scheme to all autorickshaw drivers.

In addition to the financial aid, the union also urged the government to establish a dedicated welfare board for autorickshaw drivers and to provide diesel and petrol at subsidized rates to alleviate operational costs. The protesters believe these measures are necessary to ensure the economic survival of autorickshaw drivers in the face of the new transportation policy.

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