It’s become a common sight to see hordes of poor families in the Hyderabad-Karnataka region moving out of their homes, complete with their bags and baggages, in search of jobs.
Unlike the previous years, the region this time is facing one of the worst heatwaves, coupled with the prevailing drought conditions, making it difficult for the residents to make ends meet, resulting in large-scale migration.
Poverty stricken and lower middle-class families in the districts of Vijayapura, Raichur, Yadgir and Koppal have begun to move to cities like Bengaluru, Mangaluru, Pune, Mumbai and Ratnagiri.
In the last few months alone, the North East Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NEKRTC) has earned a revenue of Rs 431.24 crore.
Though the entire revenue generation cannot be attributed to the migration, officials of the corporation say that nearly 35%-40% of the revenue is being generated from such passengers.
The corporation has introduced a concession in luggage fare which has drawn flak from the Opposition parties for “facilitating” migration.
The corporation, which has started “courtesy” stops in identified villages, is also thinking of introducing door-to-door services. It is, however, yet to introduce additional bus services.
Overloaded pvt vehicles
Stating that it was the primary responsibility of the corporation to provide “risk free” transportation, H S Ashokananda, managing director, NEKRTC, said the criticisms were unwarranted.
“The reality is that people are migrating, and they are choosing unsafe modes of transport. A large number of carriages and jeeps have now begun to encash this trend. But these are unauthorised vehicles, having no insurance cover. As many as 15 to 16 passengers are crammed in these small vehicles, which can only carry up to 8 persons. It becomes our responsibility to ensure safety to these passengers,” he added.
Notwithstanding the searing temperatures, people have now begun to call NEKRTC requesting for stops at their respective villages.
Ashokananda said that drivers have been instructed to take a detour to such villages, so that people are not forced to rely on private transportation.
The officer also said that while Bengaluru is the preferred destination, most people are also seen heading towards towns and cities in Maharashtra.
While children seek jobs in hotels or work as office boys, men and women are forced to work as construction labourers.
A majority of this migrant population, however, is said to go back to their home towns once the monsoon sets in, so that they can resume their agricultural activities.
DH News Service