INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADVANCE RESEARCH
IN MULTIDISCIPLINARY

This research article analyzes the socio-economic aspects to auto-rickshaw drivers in Bhilad Taluka of Valsad District, Gujarat, highlighting the problems they face and how these issues impact their livelihood.

A large section of India’s population is employed in the informal sector, including auto-rickshaw driving. Auto-rickshaws, a common mode on public transportation in many urban areas, play a crucial role in the urban transport ecosystem. This study seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the socio-economic status of auto-rickshaw drivers, the challenges they encounter, and to identify possible measures for improving their living and working conditions. Auto-rickshaw drivers constitute an important yet often overlooked segment of urban transportation. This research adopts a mixed-methods approach, including surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions, to explore the inequalities and difficulties present in their lives. This study examines key issues affecting this group, such as income disparity, unstable working conditions, lack of legal clarity, and social stigma. Preliminary findings reveal that most drivers have irregular incomes, insecure working environments, and are deprived of legal protection.