Drivers seek affordable homes near Bengaluru as rents push many onto streets

Transport unions urge CM Siddaramaiah to launch a dedicated housing scheme within 20 km of Greater Bengaluru, citing soaring rents, mental stress, and safety risks faced by drivers.

In a strong appeal highlighting the everyday struggles of Bengaluru’s transport workforce, the Federation of Karnataka State Private Transport Associations has asked Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to introduce a dedicated housing scheme for drivers operating in and around Greater Bengaluru.

In a letter dated January 3, the federation said auto, taxi, bus, school vehicle, and small and medium goods vehicle drivers form the backbone of the city’s economy but are facing an acute housing crisis.

 According to the federation, rental costs in the city have surged so sharply that even a single-room accommodation now costs ₹10,000 to ₹15,000 per month, far beyond the reach of most drivers.

As a result, many drivers are being pushed into unsafe and undignified living conditions. The federation noted that several drivers are forced to share overcrowded rooms, sleep inside their vehicles, or take shelter under flyovers and in vacant buildings due to the lack of affordable housing options near their workplaces.

The situation is particularly difficult for drivers who have migrated from other districts of Karnataka in search of work. With rentals consuming a major portion of their income, many are compelled to live away from their families. This separation, the federation said, has led to mental stress, health issues, and has also raised road safety concerns, as exhausted and distressed drivers remain on duty for long hours.

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Adding to their financial burden, the federation flagged the role of ride-hailing aggregators, stating that unregulated commission charges of 15 to 25 percent are significantly cutting into drivers’ earnings. This, it said, directly affects their ability to meet basic needs such as housing, healthcare, and family expenses.

Referring to the state government’s recent decision to rehabilitate unauthorised settlers in Kogilu on humanitarian grounds, the federation urged the government to extend similar compassion to lawful transport drivers who provide essential services round the clock and keep the city moving.

The federation proposed that affordable housing units be developed within a 20-km radius of Greater Bengaluru, preferably near transport depots, auto stands, and Metro stations. It suggested that the scheme be implemented through housing boards and welfare corporations, with clear and transparent eligibility norms to ensure genuine beneficiaries are covered.

According to the federation, such a housing initiative would help stabilise drivers’ family lives, reduce stress-related accidents, discourage unauthorised settlements, and ultimately strengthen Bengaluru’s transport system.