Cab Services Disrupted as Transport Unions Demand Fare Hike, Protests Escalate in Pune
Pune, 6th March 2024: The cab services in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad faced significant disruptions on Tuesday as transport unions staged a protest demanding a fare increase. The ‘Baghtoy Rickshawala’ organization led the agitation, asserting that a hike in passenger fares was crucial for the livelihood of cab drivers. Cab companies, including industry giants like Uber and Ola, have rejected the demand, sparking an indefinite strike by the Auto Taxi Bus Transport Federation scheduled for Wednesday.
Protest Highlights:
– Demand for Fare Hike: The ‘Baghtoy Rickshawala’ Association called for a fare increase, claiming that it is essential for the welfare of cab drivers. The Auto Taxi Bus Transport Federation plans a hunger strike to amplify their demand.
– Disruption and Response: The call for a stoppage received a substantial response, leading to a scarcity of available cabs in various parts of the city. The spokesperson for Uber condemned attempts to intimidate cab drivers, acknowledging service disruptions.
– Impact on Passengers: Pune residents, especially those at the airport, experienced difficulties in securing transportation during the strike. Some cab drivers reportedly exploited the situation, demanding higher fares.
Fare Hike Controversy:
– RTO Decision: The Regional Transport Office (RTO) had increased fares for air-conditioned taxis, setting the stage for a conflict between cab drivers and companies like Ola and Uber.
– Meeting Impasse: Despite two meetings chaired by the District Collector, no resolution was reached. The clash between cab drivers’ associations further escalated tensions.
– Indefinite Strike: Cab drivers initiated an indefinite strike, citing non-implementation of the approved fare hike by Ola and Uber since January.
Dr. Keshav Kshirsagar President of the ‘Baghtoy Rickshawala’ Association expressed satisfaction with the response to the strike and promised continued efforts to break the cab associations’ resistance.
Baba Kamble National President of Auto Taxi Bus Transport Federation accused Ola and Uber of running unlicensed services and called for legal action against them.
The ongoing standoff raises concerns about the inconvenience faced by Pune residents and the potential economic repercussions for cab drivers. With the strike showing no signs of immediate resolution, the city awaits further developments in this escalating transportation crisis.