New Delhi: Commercial vehicle drivers’ unions in Delhi have announced a three-day strike from May 21 to May 23, demanding an increase in taxi and auto fares amid rising fuel prices. The move is expected to impact public transport services across the capital.
The All India Motor Transport Congress has written to Delhi Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu and Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, pressing for intervention on fare revision.
Delhi taxi drivers’ unions strike
The Chaalak Shakti Union said rising fuel prices have made it difficult for drivers to sustain their livelihood. “Due to the continuously increasing prices of CNG, petrol and diesel, middle-class drivers are struggling to support their families. Therefore, in coordination with other organisations of Delhi, the ‘Chaalak Shakti Union’ has called for a Chakka Jam (strike) and appealed not to operate vehicles on May 21, 22 and 23,” said Anuj Kumar Rathore, vice-president of the union.
The union warned that if the government does not act, the agitation could escalate.
“If the government does not immediately increase taxi fares and issue a notification within one or two weeks, this movement will be intensified into a large-scale protest, for which the Delhi government solely would be responsible,” the union added.
Delhi taxi drivers strike
Drivers also alleged that taxi operators and app-based cab services are contributing to unfair pricing practices, while Delhi taxi drivers are “becoming victims of economic exploitation and slavery-like conditions.” They said fares have remained unchanged for nearly 15 years in Delhi NCR despite rising fuel costs.
“The union had to approach the Delhi High Court last year, which clearly directed that the problems of taxi drivers should be resolved and the taxi fare should be increased. Despite this, the Delhi government continues to make excuses and delay this matter by saying that the file has been sent to the Lieutenant Governor for approval,” the letter added.
Last week, the Delhi Auto Rickshaw Union and the Delhi Pradesh Taxi Union had also raised similar demands, urging the government to revise fares in line with rising operational costs.
The unions have also announced a demonstration at the Delhi Secretariat on May 23 as part of their protest.