As the election model code of conduct came into force, hiring of private transport vehicles going on at a brisk pace, in the city. Almost 800 vehicles have been hired by the Revenue Department of Visakhapatnam district under the assistance of Transport Department, to ferry those on election duty.
On Friday, almost 200 vehicles have been hired by the district administration at the LuLu Grounds near Beach Road.
Vehicle owners from various places in Visakhapatnam, have been reaching the grounds since Friday morning. Mr. Manikanta, from the Revenue Department, who was monitoring the process at the LuLu Grounds, said that after the vehicle owner deposits the vehicle, they are fixing a GPS tracker to it. The fuel cost will be also borne by the government, he said.
According to few drivers, the government has promised to pay about ₹40,000 to ₹47,500 for a month, while the day charges for the driver is fixed at around ₹200 to ₹250.
However according to officials from the Transport Department, the monthly charges are yet to be finalised.
Mixed reactions
While a few vehicle owners are happy about the Election Commission rules, others are unhappy.
“With mercury touching about 40° Celsius since the last couple of years, fewer number of tourists will visit the city during the summer. With the poll duty, we have work for a month with fixed payment,” said A. Nagababu, a cab driver from the city. However another cab driver M. Appalaraju said, “This is marriage season and we are likely to earn more than given by the government. We also have to run from pillar to post for payment.” Deputy Transport Commissioner S. Venkateswara Rao said the Collector will give in detail about the number and types of vehicles required for carrying officials, policemen, EVM machines, and others. After that notices will served on the driver and then vehicles will be hired giving total charge only as per requirement. If the vehicle owner shows genuine reason for not giving vehicle for hire, he would be exempted, Mr. Rao said
“Till now, about 800 vehicles have been hired. We are expecting about 2,000 vehicles of various types to be used for the election purpose, for which requisition process going on,” he added.