Hyderabad’s Ola, Uber, and Rapido drivers have refused airport trips, protesting against low fares set by aggregators. Led by TGPWU, they demand fair pricing and have also launched a ‘No AC’ campaign to highlight their struggle. Find out how this affects passengers and what’s next in the protest.
Hyderabad Cab Drivers Boycott Airport Trips, Launch ‘No AC’ Protest Against Low Fares
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Cab Drivers in Hyderabad Protest Low Fares, Refuse Airport Trips
Cab drivers working with Ola, Uber, and Rapido have initiated a boycott of Hyderabad airport trips, citing unfairly low fares imposed by aggregator companies. The protest, organized by the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers’ Union (TGPWU), highlights the financial difficulties faced by drivers due to the current pricing policies.
Despite multiple appeals to the government and transport authorities for a fair fare structure, no action has been taken. In response, drivers have now escalated their protest by refusing to take rides to and from Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) until their demands are met.
Why Are Hyderabad Cab Drivers Protesting?
Low Fares & High Commissions
- TGPWU claims that cab aggregators are charging as low as ₹300–₹400 for trips between the city and the airport, which they say is unsustainable for drivers.
- Companies take 30% commission on these fares, leaving drivers with minimal earnings after fuel and maintenance costs.
- The drivers are demanding a standardized fare structure that ensures fair pay for their services.
Repeated Appeals Ignored
- The union has approached the transport department several times, urging them to regulate minimum fare policies, but no resolution has been reached.
- With rising fuel prices and operational costs, many drivers claim they are barely making ends meet.
How Is the Protest Affecting Passengers?
Limited Availability of Cabs to the Airport
Passengers traveling to and from Hyderabad’s RGIA airport are already experiencing difficulties finding cabs. Many pre-booked rides are being canceled, forcing travelers to rely on alternative transportation options like auto-rickshaws, private taxis, and buses.
Longer Waiting Times & Higher Prices
With fewer drivers willing to accept airport trips, the availability of rides has decreased, leading to longer wait times and higher surge prices for those who do manage to book a cab.
TGPWU’s Next Move: The ‘No AC’ Campaign
Following the airport trip boycott, the drivers are now gearing up for the ‘No AC’ campaign, which involves:
- Turning off air conditioning (AC) in cabs to protest against unfair pricing.
- Highlighting how cab fares have become cheaper than auto-rickshaw rides, making it impossible for drivers to earn a living wage.
What This Means for Passengers
Passengers booking Ola, Uber, or Rapido cabs in Hyderabad should expect:
- Drivers refusing to switch on AC during trips, citing the protest.
- Increased fare disputes between riders and drivers.
- Rising tension between gig workers and aggregator companies.
What the Union Wants: Key Demands of TGPWU
The TGPWU is pressing for the following changes:
- Revised Fare Structure – A minimum base fare that ensures sustainable earnings for drivers.
- Reduced Aggregator Commissions – A lower commission percentage so drivers can take home more earnings.
- Government Regulation – A transparent pricing policy to prevent exploitative fare adjustments by aggregator companies.
TGPWU’s Message to the Public
The union is urging both drivers and passengers to support their cause, emphasizing that without pricing reforms, gig workers will continue to suffer financial hardships.
What’s Next? Will the Protest End Soon?
As tensions escalate, it remains to be seen whether cab aggregator companies will engage in negotiations with drivers. Without a resolution, Hyderabad may see a continued disruption in ride-hailing services, causing further inconvenience for passengers.
For now, those traveling to the Hyderabad airport should:
✅ Plan alternate transportation options like airport buses or private taxis.
✅ Expect delays and higher fares due to reduced cab availability.
✅ Be prepared for the ‘No AC’ campaign, which could affect ride comfort.
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