X: @the_news_21
In a significant breakthrough spurred by the relentless advocacy of the Indian Federation of App-based Transport Workers (IFAT), the Maharashtra Transport Commissioner has presented draft rules to enact the Motor Vehicle Guidelines 2020 to the Maharashtra Government. This development marks a pivotal stride towards regulating app-based cab companies and transporters within the state.
The Motor Vehicle Guidelines 2020, mandated by the Central Government, require respective state administrations to formulate rules for their enforcement. Notably, Rajasthan and Odisha have already adopted these guidelines. In Maharashtra, IFAT had petitioned the Bombay High Court, urging the government to draft rules for implementation, and has been actively collaborating with the Transport Commissioner to expedite the process.
Prashant Sawardekar (Bunty), President, and Uday Ambolkar, General Secretary of IFAT, have been leading this endeavor since 2020. Their steadfast engagement with the government has played a pivotal role in advancing the agenda of regulating app-based transport services in Maharashtra.
On October 19th last year, IFAT organized a sit-in protest to demand the drafting and implementation of rules. Subsequently, the Transport Commissioner convened a meeting with IFAT representatives, pledging swift action. It has now been confirmed that the Commissioner has submitted the rules to the government, signifying a significant milestone in the drive to regulate app-based transport services in the state.
Upon enactment, the Motor Vehicle Guidelines 2020 will facilitate the establishment of a Welfare Board, extending essential social security benefits to drivers, including ESIC, pension, medical insurance, term insurance, housing, education, among others. The funding for this board, sourced as a 2-5% levy from the total turnover of each app-based transport company, will be supplemented by contributions from the Central Government. Furthermore, the guidelines empower the state government to oversee fares and issue licenses to these companies.
IFAT remains steadfast in its commitment to see the guidelines fully implemented in Maharashtra. The organization will persist in engaging with the Chief Minister of Maharashtra to secure approval for the rules and ensure the effective implementation of the guidelines.
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