Bhubaneswar: App-based transport drivers in Bhubaneswar staged a protest Monday demanding a fare hike, disrupting cab and other app-based transport services.
Thousands of drivers associated with Uber, Ola, Rapido and other platforms joined the protest, backed by several driver associations. They demanded higher fares, arguing that the rates fixed by the companies are inadequate to meet their daily expenses.
The agitators gathered at Lower PMG and raised slogans in support of their demands. The protest inconvenienced commuters, particularly passengers at the airport, as app-based transport services remained unavailable.
“I have been waiting for a cab for 30 minutes, but my requests keep getting denied. I was unaware of the protest, but we are the ones paying the price,” said Priya, who was waiting for a cab at the airport.
Like Priya, many commuters heading to different parts of the City faced difficulties due to the disruption in app-based transport services. However, the protesters warned that they would intensify the agitation if their demands were not met.
“We are not making any profit from these services, while the companies continue to earn their share, leaving drivers neglected. We want a fare hike and changes in the fare structure,” said a protesting driver.
Due to the inconvenience caused to commuters, the Commissionerate Police issued an official statement announcing that PCR vans would provide emergency medical transport services from the airport to hospitals.
The drivers demanded reforms in the fare structure, including higher per-km rates, cancellation charges, compensation for passenger waiting time and increased fares during night hours. They also sought other measures to improve their earnings.