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The Telangana Gig and Platform Workers’ Union wants cab aggregators like Ola, Uber, and Rapido to adopt a uniform fare structure, similar to the prepaid taxi fares set by the government.
Hyderabad Cab Drivers To Start ‘No AC Campaign’ From March 24. Here’s Why?
Amid the ongoing protest against unfair pricing by ride-hailing giants Ola, Uber, and Rapido, Hyderabad cab drivers are escalating their actions. After boycotting airport rides, they will launch the “No AC Campaign” on March 24, refusing to provide air-conditioned rides to passengers.
In a post on X, the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers’ Union (TGPWU) said, “Cab drivers in Hyderabad to begin ‘No AC Campaign’ from March 24.
The TGPWU wants cab aggregators like Ola, Uber, and Rapido to adopt a uniform fare structure, similar to the prepaid taxi fares set by the government. This structure would take into account fuel costs, maintenance expenses, and fair compensation for drivers’ services.
Earlier in April 2024, the union had organised a ‘no AC campaign’ arguing that drivers would earn Rs 10-12 per km, while the cost of running a cab with the air conditioner on was Rs 16-18 per km.
Shaik Salahuddin, president of the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers’ Union (TGPWU), has announced that the union will protest against unfair pricing by cab aggregators like Ola, Uber, and Rapido through various means, including a ‘no AC campaign’, as quoted by Telangana Today.
Salahuddin also noted that there’s a significant disparity in fares charged by cab aggregators and pre-paid taxis, with a difference of approximately Rs 300-400. This gap, combined with the long waiting hours at airports – typically 3-4 hours for a return trip – and the hefty 30 per cent commission paid to the aggregators, results in low earnings for cab drivers.
As summer heat intensifies customers will have to deal with cab drivers refusing to turn on the air conditioner, as it increases the amount of fuel used, and translates to losses for the drivers. The TGPWU is requesting customers to be understanding of the financial struggles faced by cab drivers and consider showing appreciation by tipping them if they do provide AC services
According to Telangana Today, several cab drivers have also planned to surrender their vehicles to the Road Transport Authority (RTA) following the ‘no AC campaign’.
The TGPWU has requested the government to intervene and provide relief for cab drivers by regulating pricing policies for cab aggregators and enforcing uniform and fair charges.
