App-Based Cabs and Autos Strike to Disrupt Pune, Mumbai Commutes Today
On February 7, commuters in Pune, Mumbai, Nagpur, and other regions of Maharashtra are expected to experience significant disruptions. App-based cab and auto-rickshaw drivers plan a one-day strike to protest the lack of implementation of the state’s aggregator policy and alleged illegal operations by various service providers.
Background of the Strike
Multiple unions, including the Indian Gig Workers Front and the Baghtoy Rickshawala Union, are spearheading the protest. Keshav Kshirsagar represents both unions and expressed serious concerns about the operational legality of app-based aggregators. According to him, these services should acquire valid licenses and comply with state-approved fare structures.
Key Issues Raised
- Aggregators are allegedly operating without proper licenses.
- Current fare rates displayed on apps are often ignored, causing confusion.
- Bike taxis in certain Mumbai regions are also being contested and could face enforcement actions.
Drivers associated with popular platforms like Ola, Uber, and Rapido will likely refrain from working, affecting many daily commuters. Issues have already arisen, such as cab drivers charging more than app prices. Additionally, auto-rickshaw drivers have been known to insist on meter fares rather than app-based rates.
Impact on Commuters
The strike is anticipated to cause substantial inconveniences at key locations like Pune airport, where app-based bookings are the norm for hiring cabs. Despite this strike, Kshirsagar noted that non-aggregator metered auto-rickshaws would remain operational to lessen passenger disruptions.
Kshirsagar mentioned expectations of the state government rolling out the cab aggregator policy post-municipal elections, but so far, there has been no progress. Transport department officials had previously indicated that the policy was nearly ready, leaving many in the industry frustrated.
Alternative Strategies
Some unions have chosen to continue their services while negotiating with government authorities. Varsha Shinde, president of the Maa Saheb Cab Sanstha, emphasized the importance of maintaining operations. She highlighted past experiences, noting that an earlier strike caused significant inconveniences for both drivers and passengers.
This strike adds to the history of service disruptions in the region, as a similar strike last year left countless commuters stranded. With ongoing dialogues between unions and government entities, the future of app-based transportation services in Maharashtra remains uncertain.
