Cab drivers in Hyderabad have started a ‘no AC’ campaign to protest against app aggregators like Ola, Uber, and Rapido who are not increasing their fares. These drivers claim that the companies are threatening to permanently block their IDs on the app for participating in the campaign.
The Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) launched the campaign on April 8 to bring attention to the decreasing per km fares. Despite facing pressure from the cab aggregator companies, the union is standing firm and continuing with the campaign.
According to Shaik Salauddin, founder-president of TGPWU, drivers are struggling to offer air-conditioned rides to customers due to the high cost of running their cabs with AC. The drivers are only earning Rs. 10-12/km after factoring in the commissions charged by the platforms. Despite the threats from the companies, the drivers are persevering with the campaign out of necessity.
The drivers are grateful for the support of their customers who understand their plight and stand with them in their fight against Uber, Ola, and Rapido. They are calling for uniform fares and have warned that if their demands are not met, the campaign will be expanded to seven other cities with support from affiliated local members of IFAT.
