Hyderabad Cab Drivers Protest by Turning Off ACs
Cab drivers in Hyderabad have started a “No AC” protest to highlight their financial struggles. They are keeping the air conditioning off in their cabs to draw attention to low fares and rising costs. The Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) is leading the protest, asking ride-hailing companies and authorities to address their concerns.
Drivers working for Ola, Uber, and Rapido are participating in the protest. They have placed signs inside their cars explaining that they cannot afford to use the AC because of low earnings. Some drivers are also asking passengers for tips if they want the AC turned on. A photo of one such sign has gone viral on social media, spreading awareness about their cause.
The drivers complain that ride-hailing companies take a high commission, sometimes up to 25% per ride, which reduces their earnings. They also claim that discounts offered to passengers are not covered by the companies, leading to further losses. Additionally, rising fuel prices, vehicle maintenance costs, insurance, and loan payments are making it difficult for them to earn a decent income.
The drivers are demanding higher base fares to match inflation and increased costs. They also want ride-hailing companies to lower their commission fees and be more transparent about fare calculations and discount policies.
The protest has received mixed reactions online. Some social media users criticized the drivers for making passengers suffer due to their financial issues. Others questioned why the union was not supporting delivery workers facing similar problems. Some people even mocked the protest, pointing out that Hyderabad already has some of the highest airport cab fares in India. Others suggested using public transport instead.
This is not the first time cab drivers in South India have protested in this way. In April 2024, Hyderabad saw a similar “No AC” protest, but it only led to temporary fare changes. In December, transport workers in Chennai protested against bike taxis, saying they created unfair competition. Tamil Nadu also experienced a large-scale strike in October 2023, where over 1.2 lakh cab drivers demanded government action to regulate fares and ride-hailing services.
Despite the criticism, Hyderabad’s cab drivers remain firm in their demands for higher fares and better working conditions. It is still unclear whether ride-hailing companies will respond by increasing fares or making other changes.
