Bhubaneswar: The protest by online auto and taxi drivers in Bhubaneswar entered its third day on Wednesday, with members of the All Odisha Gig Workers’ Union continuing their demonstration over a 30-point charter of demands.
The protesting drivers gathered at Lower PMG and marched towards Master Canteen, demanding government intervention in the functioning of app-based transport services. Drivers associated with platforms such as Ola, Uber and Rapido have been seeking changes in the fare structure and measures to improve their earnings and working conditions.
Drivers Demand Fixed Online Taxi Fares
One of the primary demands of the protesting drivers is the introduction of a government-regulated fare structure for online taxi and auto services.
The union has proposed a minimum fare of Rs 12 per kilometre during the daytime and Rs 15 per kilometre at night. Drivers argue that allowing online platforms to determine fares independently has affected their earnings and made it increasingly difficult to manage operating costs.
The protesters have also demanded that fares be revised whenever there is a significant increase in fuel prices.
30-Point Charter Of Demands
The drivers’ demands extend beyond the basic fare structure. According to the union, they are seeking several measures aimed at improving the financial stability of gig workers.
Their demands include:
- Revision of fares in line with fuel price increases
- Peak-hour incentives
- Weekend bonuses
- Compensation for long-distance pickups
- Higher payment for waiting time
- Government regulation of app-based taxi fares
- A fixed and transparent fare structure for passengers
The union said such measures are necessary because drivers have to bear expenses related to fuel, vehicle maintenance, loan repayments and other operational costs while working through online platforms.
Drivers Say Earnings Are Not Enough
Several protesters expressed frustration over what they described as inadequate earnings despite spending long hours on the road.
One driver alleged that repeated assurances from authorities had not resulted in meaningful changes and said drivers were struggling to meet household expenses and repay vehicle loans.
Another protester clarified that the agitation was directed at resolving the drivers’ demands and was not intended to inconvenience commuters.
Union Seeks Immediate Talks With Government
The All Odisha Gig Workers’ Union has urged the Odisha government to initiate discussions with representatives of online auto and taxi drivers and address their demands.
The union wants the government to intervene in the fare-setting mechanism and introduce measures that can provide greater financial security to workers dependent on app-based transport services.
As the protest enters its third day, attention is now focused on whether the state government will hold talks with the drivers’ representatives and explore a resolution to the dispute.
The continuing agitation also highlights wider concerns surrounding the working conditions, earnings and regulatory framework for gig workers in Odisha’s growing app-based transportation sector.
