Truck, taxi, and auto-rickshaw drivers in Delhi have initiated a three-day strike to push for fare adjustments and relief from escalating fuel costs and operational expenses. The strike, running until May 23, is expected to disrupt transportation services in Delhi-NCR. Drivers participating in the protest highlighted their financial struggles despite long working hours and stagnant fares, aggravated by the continuous surge in diesel, petrol, and CNG prices. They emphasized the urgent need for fare hikes and improved wages to cope with the rising cost of living.
The drivers’ grievances stem from the prolonged absence of fare revisions, leading to stagnant incomes while essential expenses and fuel prices continue to soar. A cab driver shared concerns about the financial strain, noting the challenges of making ends meet despite working tirelessly. The drivers emphasized the impact of rising fuel costs on their livelihoods, with dwindling savings and increased financial hardships.
The strike’s effects were evident at Delhi Airport, where a reduced number of taxis were observed compared to usual. However, app-based cab services operated normally, mitigating inconvenience for passengers. Drivers at the airport highlighted the disparity between reduced taxi availability and unchanged fare rates, attributing the unrest to escalating fuel prices. They warned of escalating protests if the authorities do not address their demands promptly.
More than 68 transport unions, represented by bodies like the All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC) and the United Front of All Transport Associations (UFTA), are participating in the protest. These unions have called for an increase in taxi fares, a rollback of Enhanced Congestion Charges (ECC), and a review of restrictions on commercial vehicles. Despite the significant rise in fuel prices and operational expenses, taxi fares in Delhi-NCR have remained static for nearly 15 years, prompting the unions to demand immediate revisions.
The transport unions have issued a warning that unless the Delhi government acts swiftly to revise fares within the next two weeks, the protests will escalate further, intensifying the ongoing agitation for fairer compensation and operational conditions.
