The Karnataka government will set up a committee to probe issues faced by taxi drivers of app-based cab aggregators in the State.
Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy met a delegation of drivers here and was told that the aggregators were giving them a raw deal. He also discussed other issues faced by the drivers engaged by app-based cab service providers.
The delegation members also pointed out that many of the cab owners are struggling to stay in the industry as their income has seen a sharp fall with app-based service providers slashing the incentives and payouts.
The drivers requested the government to intervene immediately, pointing out that the operations by the app-based cab service providers have adversely affected the traditional taxi providers too.
Kumaraswamy directed the Transport Commissioner and the Principal Secretary of Transport Department to look into the issues on priority basis.
The Chief Minister said that there are allegations that the app-based cab services pay less to the drivers and are engaged in profiteering, and this issue should be resolved at the earliest. He also directed officials concerned to form a committee to investigate the allegations, and to hold meetings with all stakeholders to address the issues.
Curbs on plastics
The Karnataka government is contemplating to impose five per cent additional tax on certain plastic goods used in daily life, said Kumaraswamy.
Speaking at the World Environment Day function organised by Karnataka Forest Department, he said this is aimed to bring down use of plastic which adversely affects environment. Additional tax on such plastic products would not only help save environment but also help cottage industries based in rural areas. The government would provide incentives to such industries to produce eco-friendly products like bags produced out of coconut by products, he said.
"Despite various measures by the Centre and State governments, it has not been possible to stop products that harm environment. ''We have failed in this regard. More stringent steps are needed because such products cause health hazards like cancer and other diseases,'' he added.
Garment industry
Chief Minister has instructed Garment and Textile Manufacturers' delegation to provide all facilities and safety measures to garment and textile workers in the state.
Kumaraswamy, who met the visting delegation, told them that there are thousands of people, a majority of them women working in Bengaluru and nearby districts in garment and textile manufacturing sector.
He instructed them to ensure the welfare of these workers and said adequate security should be provided for the workers who work in night shifts.
Chief Minister assured the delegation members that government will give all due support to the industry and told the delegation to ensure timely payment of due wages to the workers to their accounts.