Autos, Cabs Strike in Hyderabad on Friday, Feb 16
Hyderabad's auto and cab services halt Friday due to driver strike over policy changes.
Auto-rickshaws and cab services in Hyderabad are expected to come to a halt on Friday as drivers go on strike to protest against recent legislative changes and government policies. They are particularly upset about stricter penalties for ‘hit-and-run’ cases and the introduction of the ‘Mahalakshmi scheme’, which provides free bus travel for women. This strike will impact transportation services, including those provided by Ola, Uber, Rapido, and porter cabs.
Shaik Salauddin, the founder state president of the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU), has expressed support for the striking workers. He emphasized the importance of protecting the rights and welfare of gig and platform workers.
The demands of the drivers include implementing laws to protect gig and platform workers, establishing welfare boards, and providing social security benefits such as ESI, PF, maternity, and pension benefits. They also want fair wages and the withdrawal of the law imposing strict penalties for ‘hit-and-run’ incidents.
The strike is expected to start on Friday, and its duration will depend on resolving the drivers’ concerns. While some commuters support the drivers, others are worried about disruptions to their daily routines. As of now, the government has not responded officially to the impending strike or the drivers’ grievances, leaving the outcome uncertain.
