Cab drivers in the city took to the streets in protest over a sharp decline in ride fares, which they claim have fallen from ₹14 to ₹10 per kilometre. This reduction has significantly impacted their earnings and created financial distress for many drivers who rely on ride-hailing platforms for their livelihood.
The protest, organized by the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers' Union (TGPWU), aims to highlight the ongoing struggles faced by drivers due to unsustainable fare cuts. According to the protesting drivers, the fare reduction, combined with increasing fuel prices and escalating vehicle maintenance costs, has made it difficult to sustain their daily operations.
Shaik Salauddin, the president of TGPWU, expressed concerns over the situation, stating, "The current situation is untenable for our drivers. We are demanding the creation of a government-operated aggregator app that would eliminate commission charges and ensure fair, standardized rates for rides."
Many drivers are struggling to meet their basic financial obligations, such as household expenses and loan repayments, due to the dramatically reduced fares. The union argues that the current pricing structure, which is heavily influenced by private aggregator companies, is benefiting these companies while drivers bear the brunt of the financial strain.
The union is now urging the state government to intervene and regulate ride charges by setting a minimum fare per kilometre. They contend that without proper regulation, drivers will continue to suffer while the aggregator companies continue to profit from the current model.
The protest has been gaining significant traction, with drivers refusing to accept low-fare rides until their demands are addressed. As of now, ride aggregator firms have not responded to the concerns raised by the union.
The issue of fare reduction and its impact on gig workers has sparked a broader conversation about the working conditions of drivers in the ride-hailing industry. With rising operational costs and decreasing earnings, drivers are seeking more protection and fairness through government intervention. The TGPWU hopes that the state government will act swiftly to ensure a balanced and fair model for both drivers and companies.
As this situation continues to unfold, many drivers have vowed to keep up their protests until a solution is reached that addresses their concerns and provides them with a sustainable livelihood.
