Save us from this three-wheeler mafia

By Uncle John, Kandy

One has heard of the pharmaceutical mafia, the medical mafia, the educational mafia but perhaps not of the three-wheeler mafia that has just emerged as a powerful force.

I am an 82-year-old pensioner, entirely dependent on three-wheelers for mobility. Every time I engage one, my already weakened heart stutters a bit not only because of the physical risk involved but due to the end result of a fare that can vary with the whim and fancy of the driver.

I live 2 to 3 kilometres from town -- the metered fare involved is Rs. 49.50 but the fare demanded can vary from Rs. 100 to Rs. 200. I dare not argue for I have been subjected to insults and near assault several times.

I have spoken to many drivers to say that the installation of a meter would not only be mutually beneficial but also increase their customer base and most of them seem to agree -- but who is to bell the cat?

So how about the honourable Minister or Ministers? Could you not help both the three-wheel operators and the now exploited public by making it compulsory for all three- wheelers to run on a metered fare or would your concept of democracy make you not interfere in the free running exploitation of the three-wheel mafia?