Drivers have their day, humane service hailed
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 14, 2011:
As in past years, the 22nd Drivers' Day was observed at different locations by different bodies today.
In a function organised by All Manipur Road Transport and Motor Workers Union at Sinam Sama Devi Town Hall, Chingmeirong Maning Leikai, floral tributes were paid to the late drivers who lost their lives on National Highways while on service.
General Secretary of All Manipur Road Transport Drivers and Motor Workers Union (AMRT & MWU ), H Kulamani while giving his keynote address said that drivers and handymen have been rendering service to the society by transporting essential commodities to the State.
Drivers and handymen operating along NH-39 and 53 are still facing the menace of extortion, abduction and harassment from time to time, he added.
The General Secretary further said that many drivers and handymen have even lost their lives while on service, and many are leading a life with physical disabilities of various degrees.
As a mark of respect to their service towards the society, the union has been providing pension of Rs 250 per month to physically challenged drivers and handymen, Kulamani said.
Speaking at the function, General Secretary of Transporters and Drivers' Council, Ng Haridas said that NH-39 and 53 are infested with with pathetic road conditions and different forms of harassments and extortions.
Drivers and handymen are always on the receiving end of these menace as they have to operate service braving such conditions.
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So every section of the society must acknowledge and share the grief of the bereaved families of the deceased drivers, he observed.
Social worker O Henary while speaking at the function said that due respect and tribute must be given to the drivers and handymen who lost their lives on the service of the society.
He donated Rs 5000 to the union.
Deputy Labour Commissioner Elangbam Tomba, National Federation of Indian Transport Workers General Secretary ML Jadav, Surface Transport Eco and Environment Society, Nagaland General Secretary Vipin Sophie Angami, Nungsang Aou of Petroleum Land Transport Workers Federation of India, Nagaland, Assam Motor Transport Workers' Union Acting President Dilip Killing, Kapani of Senapati District Drivers' Union and Surface Transport Hills Area Drivers Welfare Union President Jonah and AMRT & MWU President S Manglem were present in the function as presidium members.
Ten drivers who have retired from the profession were also felicitated in the function.
All Manipur Petroleum Tankers Drivers' Union (AMPTDU) also observed the day at Sangakpham Bazar.
Manipur State Commission for Women Chairperson Dr L Ibetombi, State Level Co-ordinator of IOC Ltd, Kh Ibobi, Senior Deputy Manager of IOC, N Birendrakumar and AMPTDU President Y Bhupenchandra were the presidium members of the function.