Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu announced a significant step to support the state’s autorickshaw and cab drivers: the launch of a new mobile application. This innovative app aims to level the playing field, enabling local drivers to effectively compete with popular ride-sharing services like Uber and Rapido. Through this platform, commuters will easily book rides, alleviating the need for drivers to wait for customers at traditional auto stands and ensuring a steady flow of business.
Furthermore, the Chief Minister pledged the establishment of a dedicated Welfare Board, committed to enhancing the living standards of autorickshaw drivers. Speaking at the launch of the ‘In the Service of Auto Drivers’ scheme in Ajitsingh Nagar on Saturday, Mr. Naidu heralded the occasion as a truly festive moment. Under this scheme, eligible drivers of autorickshaws, motor cabs, and maxi cabs will receive annual financial assistance of ₹15,000. To mark the inauguration, the government directly credited approximately ₹437 crore into their bank accounts via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
Mr. Naidu acknowledged the significant hardships faced by these drivers, particularly citing the burden of rising fuel prices and the exorbitant vehicle repair costs exacerbated by the poor road conditions prevalent during the previous YSRCP administration.
In response, the new coalition government has undertaken a massive infrastructure project, repairing 23,000 kilometers of roads with urgent priority. The Chief Minister also promised that these improved roads would pave the way for a smoother transition of diesel-powered autorickshaws to more environmentally friendly CNG and electric vehicles, aligning with a vision for sustainable transport.
Emphasizing his government’s deep understanding of the economic struggles faced by the majority of autorickshaw drivers, Mr. Naidu reiterated their commitment to implementing a comprehensive suite of welfare programs tailored to their needs.
He proudly declared the “Super Six” schemes a resounding success, further stating that the rationalization of GST rates had significantly boosted the public’s purchasing power, proving to be a true blessing for the citizens.
The Andhra Pradesh government, he asserted, prioritizes welfare schemes for its citizens above all else, setting a benchmark for other states. This commitment extends to good governance, exemplified by the efficient delivery of 750 citizen services directly through WhatsApp.
“The TDP-led government secured victory in the 2024 elections due to the unwavering trust of the people, who believed it would honor its commitments, a trust we upheld despite various challenges,” he remarked. He urged the populace to abandon the notion that a new government would automatically bring greater benefits, drawing a parallel with Gujarat’s prosperity, which he attributed to the consistent governance of a single party (BJP) over 25 years. This, he suggested, underscores the critical importance of continuity in governance for sustained development.
The event saw the presence of several key dignitaries, including Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Panchayat Raj & Rural Development K. Pawan Kalyan, ministers Nara Lokesh and Y. Satya Kumar, and BJP State president P.V.N. Madhav, among other notable figures.