Commercial vehicle drivers' unions in Delhi have announced a three-day strike, scheduled from May 21 to May 23, threatening widespread disruption to taxi and auto-rickshaw services across the Delhi-NCR region. The action stems from long-standing demands for fare revisions, which unions claim have not been addressed for 15 years despite a sharp increase in fuel prices.
Why Drivers Are Striking
The primary grievance of the striking unions is the financial strain on drivers caused by continuously rising costs of CNG, petrol, and diesel. They argue that current fares are unsustainable, making it difficult for middle-class drivers to support their families. The All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC), along with other unions like the Delhi Auto Rickshaw Union, Delhi Pradesh Taxi Union, and Chaalak Shakti Union, have formally communicated their demands to Delhi Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu and Chief Minister Rekha Gupta.
According to Anuj Kumar Rathore, vice-president of the Chaalak Shakti Union, the economic exploitation of taxi drivers by app-based companies and the government's delay in revising fares are key factors. Unions also highlight that the Delhi High Court had previously directed the government to resolve these issues and increase taxi fares, a directive they claim has not been fully implemented.
Impact on Commuters
During the three-day 'Chakka Jam' (strike), Delhi commuters are advised to prepare for significant challenges. Services for both city taxis and app-based cabs are expected to be severely affected, leading to longer waiting times and potential surge pricing on available ride-hailing platforms. The unions have warned that if their demands for immediate fare increases are not met within one to two weeks, the protest will intensify into a larger-scale movement.
Recent Fuel Price Hikes Fueling Discontent
The strike call comes amidst a backdrop of recent increases in fuel prices. Reports indicate that petrol and diesel prices have seen multiple hikes, including a recent increase of 90 paise per litre for both fuels. CNG prices have also risen, adding further pressure on commercial vehicle operators. These rising operational costs, coupled with stagnant fares, are central to the drivers' demands for urgent government intervention.