Fewer autos, taxis on roads this weekend
Autorickshaw and taxi driver in the city have been given strict instructions not to enter the airport premises during US President Barack Obama’s visit to Mumbai.
Autorickshaw and taxi driver in the city have been given strict instructions not to enter the airport premises during US President Barack Obama’s visit to Mumbai.
“Autorickshaws will be available outside the airport premises,” said auto union leader Thampi Kurien, adding, “We will follow the traffic directions and security measures as required.”
According to sources in the union, autorickshaw drivers won’t be plying as per their total strength of 1.04 lakh this weekend. Similarly, taxis in the city will avoid going to south Mumbai, especially areas like Colaba and Churchgate.
Sources in the taxi union said several drivers had approached them saying they would go to south Mumbai depending on the situation at the time.
AL Quadros, general secretary, Mumbai Taximens Union said: “Taxis and all other vehicle won’t be allowed to halt in south Mumbai due to security concerns. There will be at least 30% lesser taxis on the roads.”
Usually during Diwali, a driver earns around Rs 700 a day.
Meanwhile, the traffic police has stated that more than 700 personnel will man the vehicular movement during the US President’s visit. “We will open the roads for some time depending on the situation and flow of traffic. The road restrictions for vehicles are subject to change,” said Vivek Phansalkar, joint traffic commissioner.