Bhopal Taxi Drivers Plan Statewide Protest

App-based taxi drivers in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, have announced a statewide protest against the fare policies and alleged arbitrary practices of app-based aggregator companies. The protest is scheduled to take place between August 18-20.

The decision to protest was made at a meeting held at Chinar Park on Saturday, where office-bearers and drivers associated with the Bhopal Taxi Drivers' Association, affiliated to Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh and Taxi Union Welfare Committee of India, decided to hold a large rally on August 15.

The association is demanding a government-approved fare structure and action against illegal commercial vehicles. They have also threatened to gherao the CM House if their demands are not met.

Earlier, taxi drivers had boycotted airport rides on June 23, 24, and 25 to press for their demands. The association claimed that companies had temporarily revised fares after the protest but later returned to previous rates.

The drivers said their demand was not limited to a percentage-based fare hike but a complete overhaul of the fare system, including base fare, time charges, and per-kilometre payments.

Raiesh Nagle, general secretary of the association, said that Madhya Pradesh did not have a clear government policy for deciding taxi fares. They alleged that aggregator companies are taking advantage and setting fares arbitrarily.

The organisations have demanded a permanent government guideline for taxi fares. Their proposed structure includes a base fare of Rs 50-60 per ride, a time charge of Rs 1-1.50 per minute, and a fare of Rs 22-30 per kilometre, depending on the vehicle category.

The protest is expected to affect taxi services across the state, with drivers refusing to work until their demands are met.

The association hopes that the government will take notice of their demands and work towards creating a fair and transparent fare system for taxi drivers.

The issue of fare policies has been a long-standing concern for taxi drivers in Madhya Pradesh, with many feeling that they are being exploited by aggregator companies.

The proposed protest is a significant development in the ongoing struggle for fair wages and working conditions for taxi drivers in the state.

The outcome of the protest remains to be seen, but it is clear that the taxi drivers are determined to fight for their rights and demand a better deal from the government and aggregator companies.