Vijayawada: Hundreds of auto drivers took out a protest rally demanding the govt to immediately ban private cab aggregator mobile applications such as Ola, Uber, and Rapido. They urged the govt to introduce a govt-owned free cab operator mobile application to ensure fair earnings and prevent private cab aggregator apps from collecting platform hefty fees and commissions from auto drivers. The protest rally proceeded from Bhanu Nagar to Food Junction on BRTS Road on Tuesday.
A large number of auto drivers participated in the protest rally held under the aegis of the Centre of India Trade Unions (CITU)-affiliated city workers’ union, led by CITU union president D Kasinath and secretary K Durga Rao, supported by CPM state secretariat member Ch. Babu Rao.
Speaking on the occasion, CITU union leaders alleged that private cab aggregator apps such as Ola, Uber, and Rapido are not only exploiting auto drivers but also overcharging passengers under the guise of providing hired rides. They accused these private companies of unlawfully deducting drivers’ earnings through platform fees and commissions.
The union leaders demanded that the govt roll back GO 21, which imposes heavy penalties on auto drivers. They also called for immediate provision of Rs 15,000 in financial aid to auto drivers, as promised in the election manifesto, and the establishment of a board dedicated to the welfare of auto drivers in the state.
