BANGALORE: Families of drivers of private commercial vehicles like autorickshaws, maxi-cabs, lorries and private buses can now heave a sigh of relief. The state government has offered insurance cover upto Rs 2 lakh to these drivers, who are constantly exposed to danger. In cases of accidents, a driver either succumbs or suffers permanent/partial disability, often pushing his family into wrecked conditions. The new scheme- ‘Karnataka State Commercial Vehicle Drivers’ Accident Benefit Scheme’ is a boon in disguise to many families. Drivers have to pay Rs 25 and register themselves for the insurance cover of Rs 2 lakh. It is estimated that there are more than 10 lakh commercial vehicle drivers. The scheme is applicable to private commercial vehicle drivers aged between 20 and 70 years, who have driving licence issued in the state. Also, the coverage is applicable to both on-duty and off-duty workers. Speaking to Express, Umashankar S R, commissioner for Labour said, “In last year’s Budget, the state government had allotted Rs 2 crore for the welfare of labourers. This scheme has been approved by the Financial Department with a government order and is ready to be implemented. Government will bare the premium at a rate of Rs 92 per driver per year.” Umashankar said that the registration will start from May. “Necessary advertisements will be given after its launch. Drivers can register themselves by producing their driving license with badge number acknowledged by a notary.”The department has called tenders for development of software for registration. The identification and coverage of a beneficiary shall be as per the records of Regional Transport Offices in Karnataka. Insurance amount will be given to drivers in cases of loss of both the hands, loss of a hand or a foot, very severe facial disfigurement, absolute deafness among others.
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