Auto drivers Of Mangalore City Chakreshwari A B Online published on 24 October, 2019. Abstract Auto-rickshaws play an important role in urban transport in India.: India is experiencing a massive urbanization and an unprecedented growth in transport system. The Government has successfully intervened to decongest the traffic through infrastructure development. However, road fatalities, air pollution and frequent congestions are a common sight in many metros of India. Adding to the chaos is the muddled ecosystem of auto-rickshaws. The informal economies of auto-rickshaws are just not a social-economic problem but also a serious ecological concern. Some of the social-firms have ventured in to bring an eco-balance in the system. This study concentrates on the current socio-economic condition of auto-rickshaw drivers, the prospects and problems encountered by the stakeholders and the role of social organizations in transforming the lives, at large, in Mangalore. Over 50 auto-drivers were surveyed to understand their economic and lifestyle stature, expectations, problems and need for reforms. Despite this role, auto-rickshaws and their drivers face considerable criticism from the public, the media and policy makers. There is a contentious public debate about the perceived faults of auto-rickshaws and their drivers, and the policies to address these issues in Indian cities. Our objective is to provide balance and nuance to this debate, and to enable the perspective of drivers to be more effectively considered, along with that of auto-rickshaw users and the wider travelling public, in policy-making. To this end, we critically discuss the criticism and underlying perceptions; highlight the niche role of auto-rickshaws in urban transport; and present an investigation of the realities and economics of auto-rickshaw ownership and operation. The actual congestion, safety and air pollution impacts of auto-rickshaws are at strong variance with the criticisms and perceptions on the part of the public, media and policy makers. The realities of auto-rickshaw operation are extremely challenging, and unlikely to place the driver and his family above the poverty line, which may drive some of the actions, such as not going by the meter. Finally, we critically assess policy recommendations to address the issues related to auto-rickshaws and their drivers, and offer our own suggestions regarding open permit systems, improved access to formal sector credit, a timetable for regular fare revision and the phasing out of auto-rickshaws with two-stroke engines. Auto drivers are exposed to a number of health problems as a direct result of the posture adopted in driving. A diet high in fats and carbohydrates and low in fresh fruit, salads and fiber will add to the level of poor health. Auto rickshaw drivers are not properly concern their health due to bushy schedule on their work. The driving posture also causes problems for the digestive system and the incidence of smoking and drinking can also create health problems of auto drivers. Thus study aims to describe the socio economic status and occupational health problems of the auto rickshaw drivers in the study area Top Keywords Urbanisation, driver, auto-rickshaw. Top |