Autorickshaw unions in Maharashtra demand fare hike and Ola-Uber shut down

Autorickshaw unions in Maharashtra have threatened to go on an indefinite strike across the state as they demand fare hike and banning app-based taxi service particularly Ola and Uber that have been allegedly eating up their business.

According to a media report, these unions have demanded a minimum fare hike or Rs 4 per kilometer before June 30. If their demand is not fulfilled, over 10 lakh auto drivers including 2 lakh drivers in Mumbai, will go on strike on July 9.

According to the Union, the welfare board is not working towards the development of autorickshaw drivers and they have running on the same fare for almost 3 years.

Now, they are demanding to set up a welfare body for auto drivers that would make them eligible for pension, provident fund, gratuity and medical help. Besides, it will minimize illegal public transport in the state.

The union will submit the demand to Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnaivs and transport minister Diwakar Raote.

Apart from auto drivers unions, cab aggregators Ola and Uber had also faced protest by their own drivers over fall in daily income and incentives.  During 13 days of protest in Mumbai and Delhi, the driver partners had alleged that their income plunged over the past two years after Uber and Ola cut incentives to boost profitability.

In case of similar protest, the daily life of commuters will be affected badly as autorickshaw in Mumbai is like a lifeline for last mile commute.

Of late, Goa's only app-based cab service GoaMiles had welcomed Ola and Uber to do operations in the state. GoaMile was facing a backlash from private taxi owners who alleged that their business has been hampered due to app-based cab service.