Public transport plays a vital role in the daily lives of people in Chennai, and auto-rickshaws continue to be one of the most convenient and widely used modes of transport. However, the profession of an auto driver has undergone significant changes in recent years due to rising fuel prices, increasing traffic congestion, and competition from app-based transport services and two-wheeler taxis.
To understand the realities of this profession, I interviewed Mr. Kumar, an auto driver from Chennai who has been working in this field for the past six years. The interview provides insights into the challenges, opportunities, and experiences of an auto driver in today’s changing transport sector. The interview was conducted in Tamil and recorded as an audio podcast, which has been uploaded to YouTube as supporting evidence.
Interview
Q1. Please introduce yourself and tell us how long you have been working as an auto driver.
Answer: My name is Kumar. I have been working as an auto driver for the past six years.
Q2. What made you choose this profession?
Answer: I was working in a company earlier, but it closed down and I lost my job. I could not find another job, so because of my financial situation and the need to earn an income, I chose this profession.
Q3. What does a typical working day look like for you?
Answer: In a company job, you have to go to work on time and follow strict schedules. But in this profession, I can work according to my convenience. If someone at home is unwell or there is an emergency, I do not have to seek permission from anyone. This job gives me more freedom and flexibility.
Q4. What are the major challenges you face in your job?
Answer: The price of fuel has increased a lot and traffic congestion has become worse. However, our income has not increased accordingly. These are the biggest challenges we face.
Q5. How have rising fuel prices affected your earnings?
Answer: Rising fuel prices have significantly reduced my earnings. Daily expenses have increased, but the income remains almost the same. It has become difficult to save money and manage household expenses.
Q6. How has technology and app-based transport changed your profession?
Answer: App-based transport services have affected our livelihood. The entry of two-wheeler taxi services such as Rapido has reduced our business considerably. Nowadays, it is difficult even to earn ₹500 a day.
Q7. What do passengers usually expect from auto drivers today?
Answer: It is difficult to say what passengers expect from us. Sometimes they are unwilling to pay even the fare we ask for. We only expect them to pay a fair amount for the service we provide.
Q8. What do you enjoy most about your work?
Answer: I enjoy the freedom this profession gives me. I can decide my own working hours and manage my time according to my personal needs.
Q9. What changes would you like to see for the welfare of auto drivers?
Answer: Auto drivers should work honestly and drive responsibly. The government should reduce fuel prices and take steps to control the competition from two-wheeler taxi services so that our livelihood is protected.
Q10. What message would you like to share with young people?
Answer: Young people should study well and get good jobs. Those who choose this profession should work honestly and responsibly. Driving after consuming alcohol is wrong and puts passengers’ lives at risk. I never allow drunken passengers to create trouble in my vehicle. Safety should always come first. I also hope that the government reduces fuel prices and addresses the challenges faced by auto drivers.
Interviewer: Thank you, Mr. Kumar, for participating in this interview and sharing your experiences.
Mr. Kumar: Thank you, sir.
The interview with Mr. Kumar highlights the struggles and uncertainties faced by auto drivers in urban India. Rising fuel costs, heavy traffic, and competition from app-based services have significantly affected their earnings and livelihood. Despite these challenges, Mr. Kumar values the independence and flexibility that his profession offers.
The interview also reflects his concern for passenger safety and his belief that honesty and discipline are essential qualities for anyone entering this profession. His experiences provide valuable insights into the lives of self-employed transport workers and underline the need for policies and support systems that can improve the welfare of auto drivers.
