Guwahati: A two-day disruption in app-based transport services across Guwahati has eased after protesting cab drivers agreed to temporarily suspend their indefinite strike, following an assurance from the Assam Transport Department that their concerns would be examined within 14 days.
The decision came after representatives of the Guwahati Online Cab Drivers’ Society met officials of the Transport Department on Wednesday. During the meeting, drivers were informed that the Commissioner of Transport, Assam, had issued show-cause notices to several app-based cab aggregators over alleged violations of regulatory requirements. The concerned companies have been asked to submit their responses within the next 14 days.
The drivers had launched the protest over what they consider inadequate earnings in comparison with increasing fuel prices, vehicle maintenance expenses and other operating costs. The agitation involved drivers working with platforms such as Ola, Uber and Rapido.
Among their primary demands is a revision of minimum fares. The drivers are seeking a base rate of Rs 25 per kilometre for hatchbacks and Rs 30 per kilometre for sedans. They are also calling for appropriate charges for ride cancellations and waiting time.
The protest had caused disruptions to several app-based mobility services in Guwahati, including cab, auto-rickshaw and bike services, as drivers stayed away from operations.
With the Transport Department now giving a 14-day window to address the issues, the drivers have decided to wait and assess the outcome. They are expected to review the government’s response after the deadline before deciding whether to resume their protest or take any further steps.
For commuters in Guwahati, the temporary suspension of the agitation is expected to bring some relief to app-based transport services, although the long-term situation will depend on the outcome of the discussions between the government, drivers and cab aggregators.
