KOLKATA: Thousands of commuters in Kolkata faced significant inconvenience on Thursday as app-based cab and bike services went off the roads for 12 hours. The strike, led by the CITU-affiliated Kolkata Ola Uber App Cab Operators and Drivers Union, involved around 7,000 app cabs and several thousand app bikes. The protest was aimed at pressuring aggregators like Ola and Uber to revise fare structures and increase drivers’ revenue share.
The union has demanded an annual revision of cab fares in line with the Aggregate Law, making it more rational and practical. Key demands include fixing fares at ₹25 per km for non-AC cabs, ₹30 per km for AC cabs, and ₹12 per km for app bikes. Additionally, drivers are seeking a higher percentage of revenue from aggregators, citing rising fuel costs and operational expenses.
Impact on Commuters
The strike left many commuters stranded, especially those reliant on app-based services for daily travel. Over the past few years, app cabs and bikes have become a preferred mode of transport in Kolkata, offering convenience and affordability. However, the sudden disruption forced many to opt for traditional taxis, auto-rickshaws, or public transport, leading to overcrowding and longer wait times.
Latest Updates
As of date, the union has threatened to escalate protests if their demands are not met. Aggregators like Ola and Uber have yet to issue an official statement addressing the fare hike demands. Meanwhile, the state government has urged both parties to resolve the issue amicably to avoid further inconvenience to the public.
Source: Web Team, C6N
