Karnataka: No consensus on cabbies' protest

Bengaluru: Transport Department officials on Wednesday tried to resolve the ongoing tussle between private cab company representatives and various taxi and auto drivers’ organisations.

Uber and Ola drivers went on a strike on Sunday, protesting against lack of promised incentives and commission rates from cab aggregators. They also protested against the changing rules on fares, limits to reach target incentives, etc.

“The drivers poured out their grievances on various issues with their respective companies. They presented their letters to Transport Commissioner M.K. Aiyappa, who was present. Ola officials said that they will need three days to come to a consensus," said Mr. Radhakrishna Holla, General Secretary, Bengaluru Tourist Taxi Operators’ Association. Drivers are not on strike now, he clarified.

At the meeting, the drivers said that the limit of 24 trips per day set by the companies to get incentives was impossible to achieve. The companies have also not met the promise of Rs 1 lakh earnings per month, they complained.

Some drivers also alleged that the companies employed bouncers to threaten and beat them if they went against the decision of the companies. If the drivers complain or go on strike, the companies deactivate their apps on the phone, Mr Holla said.

After the meeting Mr Aiyyappa said that both the factions are directed to find an amicable solution or department will step in.

Mr H.G. Kumar, Additional Commissioner of Transport, and Mr Ganendra Kumar, Joint Commissioner of Transport, were also present.