Nagpur: App-based cab drivers threaten to switch off ACs
What's the story
App-based taxi drivers in Nagpur have threatened to stop providing air-conditioned rides in summer unless their demands for fare hike and insurance coverage are met.
The drivers contend that the existing fare structure doesn't sufficiently compensate them for increasing fuel and maintenance costs.
They submitted a memorandum detailing their grievances to district collector Vipin Itankar (also Regional Transport Authority chairman) and other transport officials.
Unfair earnings
Cab drivers demand fare revision and insurance coverage
The drivers allege that despite passengers paying the full fare shown on their app screens, they make ₹7 less per kilometer than autorickshaw operators.
To put things in perspective, autorickshaw fares vary between ₹16-₹18 per km, while taxi drivers only get ₹9-11 per km.
They have warned that any disputes arising from the absence of AC services will have to be borne by the administration and aggregator companies.
Insurance demands
Insurance coverage: A sticking point in negotiations
Along with fare revisions, the drivers are also demanding insurance coverage for all cab operators under aggregator license.
They say that such coverage is essential for getting benefits for their families.
Daytime temperature in Nagpur is already in the mid-thirties. The maximum forecast temperature for Saturday, March 1 is 36°C and is expected to increase in the coming days.