CM Approves Welfare Scheme for Motor Vehicle Drivers & Workers

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Monday approved the welfare scheme for the motor vehicle drivers and workers.

The Chief Minister also approved the proposal for formation of a welfare board to implement this important scheme, stated an official release.

With the approval by Chief Minister, Commerce and Transport Minister Tukuni Sahu launched the scheme at a function attended by the motor vehicle drivers and workers here.

The Minister said that the welfare board will be initially funded by the State Government. Later, the scheme will be managed by collecting funds from registration fee collection, transport vehicle owner contributions and other sources.

Sahu also announced various facilities to be provided to the transport drivers and other workers under the scheme.

In case of death due to road accidents, Rs 4 lakh will be paid to the nominee of the deceased driver/employee, the Minister said.

In case of severe injuries, Rs 80,000 and in case of permanent disability Rs 150,000 will be paid to the motor transport driver or employee. In case of ordinary death, Rs 2 lakh will be paid to the nominated person.

The drivers and workers will be eligible for inclusion in Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana (BSKY), Madhu Babu Pension Scheme etc.

The welfare board to be constituted for the purpose will have government members as well as representatives of motor transport drivers/other workers.

Over 5 lakh motor vehicle drivers and workers in the state will benefit from the scheme, the Minister said.

Speaking on the occasion, Transport Commissioner Amitabh Thakur has highlighted the various aspects of the scheme.