The Maharashtra Karmachari Union, led by its President Ravindra Sawant, has submitted a formal demand to the Deputy Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Navi Mumbai, seeking an increase in rickshaw meter fares due to a recent surge in CNG prices. The appeal was made during a meeting with Assistant RTO Gajanan Gawde, where rickshaw operators and union leaders discussed their mounting challenges.

Representatives from the rickshaw union, including Unit President Vivek Pawar and members Sandeep Bagde, Raju Kadam, Ganesh Shinde, Waman Rangari, and Vinod Malusare, joined Sawant to highlight the financial struggles faced by rickshaw drivers.

CNG prices have recently risen to Rs. 77 per kg, putting additional strain on rickshaw drivers already grappling with inflation, vehicle maintenance costs, and declining business post-COVID. Many drivers are struggling to cover basic expenses, such as loans, house rent, and children's education.

Sawant emphasized the need to revise the starting fare on rickshaw meters from Rs.23 to Rs.26 to offset rising CNG costs and sustain the livelihoods of drivers. "The rickshaw business is already in a recession, and increasing operational costs have made it difficult for drivers to break even," he stated.

Additional concerns raised included exorbitant fees charged by private agencies for mandatory vehicle fitness certifications, with some agencies reportedly demanding Rs.2,700–Rs.3,000 instead of the regulated Rs.700. Responding to this, Assistant Deputy RTO Gajanan Gawde assured that raids would be conducted on such agencies to ensure compliance with rules.