App-Based Drivers Seek Wage Protection

In a representation submitted to the transport department and the labour department, the Forum sought kilometre-based uniform fares for city autos and cabs, along the lines of the model introduced in Karnataka. The Forum represents thousands of auto and cab drivers operating through app-based transport service aggregators.

They sought the elimination of exploitative surge pricing and fluctuating fare algorithms. They also wanted the introduction of transparency in fare structures, including base fare, per km charge, wait time, and the regulation of illegally operating vehicles from other states on aggregator platforms.

The Forum also requested the government to ensure that the rapidly expanding platform economy must not become a space for deregulated and low-paid work. “Drivers deserve dignity of labour, predictable income, and protection from exploitation. The state government must take the lead in ensuring fairness and transparency in the transport gig economy,” it said.