Telangana Gig Workers union alleges threats by Ola, Uber, Rapido over 'No AC campaign'

HYDERABAD: The Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU), affiliated with the Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers (IFAT), alleges that Ola, Uber, and Rapido have been threatening drivers by permanently blocking their IDs on the app and not assigning them airport or inter-city rides since launching their 'No AC campaign'.

The TGPWU launched its 'No AC Campaign' on April 8, 2024, to draw attention to declining per-kilometer fares. However, they now allege that Ola, Uber, and Rapido have threatened to permanently block drivers' IDs on the app and not assign them airport or inter-city rides. Despite these threats, the driver-members have persisted with the campaign out of necessity.

Shaik Salauddin, Founder-President of the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU), said, "In this sweltering heat, drivers working with Uber, Ola, and Rapido regret not being able to offer high-quality, air-conditioned rides to customers. Since the campaign's launch, platform companies have threatened drivers by permanently blocking their IDs on the app and not assigning them airport or inter-city rides. Despite these threats, our driver-members have continued with the campaign out of necessity. The cost of running our cabs with AC is Rs. 16-18 per kilometer. After accounting for commissions charged by platforms, we only earn Rs. 10-12 per kilometer.

"We want to thank our customers who have understood our plight and supported us in our fight against Uber, Ola, and Rapido. Customers understand that with rising fuel prices and increasing inflation, it's not possible for drivers to survive on the earnings set by these companies. Through this campaign, we don't intend to inconvenience our customers or ourselves as drivers. We want to reach out to the platforms and state governments that have ignored our demands for uniform fares. If our demands are not met, IFAT will launch this campaign in seven other cities with support from its affiliated local members: Sarvodaya Drivers Association, Delhi; Expert Drivers Solution in Haryana; Karnataka App-Based Drivers Union, Bengaluru; West Bengal Online Cab Operators Guild, Kolkata; Independent App-Based Cab and Drivers' Association, Uttar Pradesh; Rajasthan Gig and App-Based Workers Union, Rajasthan; and Maharashtra Rajya Rashtriya Kamgar Sangh, Maharashtra."