The Telangana Gig and Platform Workers’ Union (TGPWU) has launched a campaign against ‘unfair pricing policies’ of cab-hailing companies such as Uber, Ola and Rapido.

“We have called for a boycott of airport trips as the fares are too low. They (fares) are on par with autos, which are not at all remunerative. Over 6,000 cabs stayed away from offering trips to and from the airport,” Shaik Salauddin, Founder-President of TGPWU, told businessline.

“This decision comes in response to the persistent issue of low fares imposed by these aggregator companies, which have severely impacted the livelihoods of cab drivers,” he said. There are over 1.25 lakh cabs registered on the three platforms.

No decisive action

Salauddin alleged that no decisive action has been taken despite repeated representations to the government and the transport department, urging uniform and fair pricing for aggregator services.

The TGPWU demands that the government immediately establish a uniform fare structure to ensure fair pay and sustainable livelihoods for all gig and platform workers.

“Our members have consistently voiced their grievances about exploitative fare structures. These low fares not only compromise driver earnings but also devalue their time and efforts. The government must take immediate steps to implement a uniform fare policy that is fair to both drivers and passengers,” he said.

He said the association would try to raise awareness among passengers about the challenges faced by gig and platform workers.