Hyderabad: The ongoing protest by cab drivers in the city has severely disrupted airport transportation services, as drivers demand higher fares from ride-hailing platforms. On Wednesday and Thursday, drivers refused to accept rides at what they claim are unsustainably low rates for airport pickups and drop-offs.
In response, authorities at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) issued an advisory on Wednesday, warning passengers of potential disruptions and recommending alternative transport options, including TSRTC’s Pushpak bus services. However, protesting drivers insisted they would only accept rides that offer surge pricing or fares that meet their financial needs.
The protest highlights the ongoing stand-off between cab drivers and ride-hailing platforms over fare structures and commission rates.
Janardhan G, a former fleet driver who now works with taxi aggregator apps, explained the shift in payment models that has fuelled the unrest. “Earlier, we used to receive a fixed wage from radio taxi companies, along with extra earnings from completed trips. Now, these app companies determine the per-kilometre fare, their commission, and other benefits entirely on their own,” he said.
The boycott campaign has left frequent travellers scrambling for alternatives.
Shashi M, a regular business traveller, said, “Such developments severely inconvenience those who make last-minute bookings and need to fly urgently.” He noted that some passengers are resorting to informal bookings with known drivers, sometimes paying up to Rs 1,500 for a single airport trip.
Shaik Salauddin, state president of the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union, emphasised the need for regulatory intervention. “Our members have repeatedly raised concerns about exploitative fare structures. These low fares not only reduce driver earnings but also undervalue their time and efforts,” he said, urging the govt to implement a uniform fare policy. Other drivers hinted at plans to escalate their protest after the holy month of Ramzan.