If you’ve failed to get an Ola or Uber in Delhi/NCR this Friday morning then don’t worry, you are not the only one. Drivers with the cab-hailing companies are protesting against lack of incentives and low fares.
The protest has been allegedly orchestrated by driver’s union called Sarvodaya Driver Association of Delhi. We reached out to both Ola and Uber, who have accepted that none of their cabs are plying on the roads in Delhi right now.
A small group of people are disrupting the Uber service in parts of Delhi, and there have been isolated reports of threats and intimidation.Uber Spokesperson
Drivers have voiced their concern about the difficulties of making a living by driving an Ola or Uber, amidst lower incentives on offer. The union has stated that the lack of more cab fleets at Ola and Uber’s end has resulted in higher surge charges, which works against the drivers.
They also feel that with fares like Rs 6/km (Ola Micro), drivers have no scope to make margins from each ride, a concern which they have for the ride-sharing feature as well.
We are working hard to ensure reliable rides are available for everyone and we can keep the city moving. We call on authorities to ensure the safety of riders and driversUber Spokesperson
Competition has definitely come at a cost for both Ola and Uber, and while the latter manages to pump in funds whenever they want, Ola’s situation is complex.
Between all this, the union feels that drivers are bearing the brunt of the rivalry, while consumers stand to benefit. But with strikes like these, that too on the weekdays, people are definitely caught on the wrong foot.
(Source: Financial Express)
(At The Quint, we question everything. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member today.)