Toto drivers in Uttarpara kept their vehicles off the road on Saturday after hearing rumors about arrests for driving on GT Road. A large group of drivers gathered in front of the Uttarpara police station with placards to demand alternative employment. Drivers from Balikhal attached saffron flags to their vehicles and protested because they heard from Chandannagar traffic police that driving on GT Road could lead to vehicle seizures and arrests.
The Uttarpara Toto Union leader Tapas Pal stated that if the administration wants to stop Toto services, they must arrange alternative jobs for the drivers first.
Drivers declared they will stop driving Totos if proper livelihood arrangements are made. They also claimed that the local MLA has not taken any solid steps to solve the Toto problem.
Uttarpara MLA Dipanjan Chakraborty stated that he has no information about any arrests of Toto drivers.
He explained that traffic meetings were held two months ago with the municipality chairman, police, and traffic officials to find alternative routes since bus routes also operate on GT Road. The MLA mentioned that the ACP Traffic informed him on Saturday morning that a meeting was being held with Toto drivers regarding GT Road operations.
He emphasized that sudden decisions should not be made without considering the livelihood of the drivers and that administration must remain sensitive to their needs.
