Imphal: Diesel-run auto-rickshaw drivers here have threatened to launch a hunger strike if the government fails to withdraw its ban on diesel autos soon to minimise pollution and congestion.

The auto drivers have been on a sit-in since Friday to protest against the government's decision.

Chief minister Biren Singh and the traffic regulation and parking committee (Imphal East and West) decided to ban diesel autos and vans during a meeting held here on April 25.

Biren Singh said auto-rickshaws and diesel-van transport would be substituted by state bus service and e-rickshaws.

The state has earmarked Rs 73 crore to procure 100 buses. More money will be sanctioned if required, he had said.

The auto drivers are demanding a withdrawal of the ban.

Others said the government should provide loans to procure e-rickshaws to replace their diesel-autos. They also sought that the state should fix a value of the existing autos and adjust it when the loan is provided.

"We know the government is taking this step to control pollution in Imphal. The order to cut off our livelihood without arranging for an alternative has shocked us. We acquired our vehicles through loans and by selling our residential and paddy lands," said an auto driver.

L. Sashikanta, the general secretary of joint action committee formed against the decision, said, "If the government does not listen to us, we will take up intense forms of agitations, including a hunger strike. What is shocking us is that they have collected crores of rupees by collecting one-time tax. We have spent money for a smart driving-licence card and installation of IND number plates as ordered. The sudden decision to ban us in Imphal after collecting a huge amount of money is unacceptable."

The drivers alleged that the decision to ban the vehicles is like an attempt not only to kill them but all their family members as well. They began this means of livelihood as the state government had permitted it.

Tests of pollution levels conducted here found that the noise and air pollution caused by diesel autos have crossed the permissible limits with the noise level exceeding 65 decibels.