36th Drivers' Day observed, drivers' safety stressed
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, January 14 2025: The Inter State Bus Drivers and Workers' Union and All Manipur Road Transport Drivers' & Motor Workers' Union (AMRTDMWU) observed the 36th Drivers' Day in separate functions today.

The Inter State Bus Drivers and Workers' Union celebrated Drivers' Day at the hall of Friends Union Club located at Khurai Heikrumakhong today.

On the occasion, Khongnangthaba University organised a free health camp for motor workers and the public.

Around 100 persons underwent health checkups at the camp and received medications for their ailments.

The event was graced by veteran drivers Thounaojam Shamu and Konthoujam Tombi and Kshetrimayum Shanta, secretary, Centre of Indian and Trade Unions (CITU), Manipur as presidium members.

In observance of Drivers' Day, the gathering paid homage to the deceased drivers and workers of Inter State Bus Drivers and Workers' Union with the offering of floral tributes.

Secretary of the Union Konthoujam Kanta led in presenting shawls to the children and kin of the deceased members.

Addressing the gathering, Ksh Shanta, secretary, CITU urged the State Government to extend assistance to motor workers in view of the conflict and provide compensation in case of injuries.

He further called for the rescinding of the Motor Vehicles Act (Amendment) 2019, stating that it is against the welfare of motor workers.

The Motor Vehicles Act (Amendment) 2019 advocates for wealthy motor owners instead of looking out for the workers, claimed Ksh Shanta.

He called for more awareness about the Act among the members of the Union as well as their family members.

Separately, the AMRTDMWU observed 36th Drivers' Day at their office located at MG Avenue with an offering of floral tributes to 314 deceased drivers followed by observing a few minutes of silence in their honour.

Speaking in this connection, M Anil, general secretary,) AMRTDMWU, said that drivers ply along NH-2 and NH-37, through hills and forests putting their lives on the line to transport essential commodities to the public.

He urged people to recognise the invaluable role played by drivers during the pandemic and the ongoing conflict.

Stating that drivers have no enemies, he appealed to people to provide help to drivers if they are faced with unfortunate circumstances in the hills or valley areas.

Notably, the AMRTDMWU general secretary strongly advocated for safety of drivers and raised a call against tormenting them by inflicting physical assault or imposing monetary demands.

The truck load of goods do not belong to the drivers and they work for meagre wages, said M Anil.

The event was also graced by L Sotinkumar, secretary, AITUC Manipur, families and relatives of deceased drivers as well as representatives of notable unions and associations.

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