Hyderabad taxi drivers are preparing for a new wave of protests against discriminatory pricing by ride-hailing companies such as Ola, Uber, and Rapido. From March 24, they will start the No AC Campaign, wherein they will not turn on air conditioners during rides. They had recently boycotted airport rides and this is their next step to urge a reasonable and uniform fare system. The Telangana Gig and Platform Workers’ Union (TGPWU), which represents the drivers, contends that the existing model of pricing doesn’t consider the cost of fuel, maintenance of the vehicle, or reasonable wages.
Why Are Drivers Launching The Hyderabad Cab Drivers No AC Campaign?
The Hyderabad Cab Drivers No AC Campaign is the most recent effort of cab drivers to bring attention to their financial hardship. Drivers earn ₹10-12 per km, according to TGPWU, but it costs ₹16-18 per km to drive an air-conditioned vehicle. This disparity puts drivers at a loss, particularly after considering the 30% commission charged by the aggregators.
The union has also highlighted a huge fare difference between app-based cabs and prepaid taxis, with app-based rides usually costing
₹300-400 extra. Moreover, long waiting times at airports—sometimes even 4 hours for a return journey—also cut into earnings.
By disabling the AC, drivers aim to increase awareness among passengers and force aggregators to change to a more equitable pricing strategy.
Also Read: Karnataka Govt Issues New Uniform Fare For Cabs, Ola, Uber; Min Fare Priced Acc To Vehicle Cost
What This Means For Passengers And The Industry
As the summer season sets in, passengers in Hyderabad might be stuck in non-air-conditioned taxis unless they willingly tip drivers who opt to switch on the AC. The union has appealed to passengers to be sympathetic to the monetary constraints of drivers and sympathise with their cause.
Apart from the No AC Campaign, certain cab drivers are also contemplating the surrendering of their cars to the Road Transport Authority (RTA) in protest. The TGPWU has asked the government to intervene and impose reasonable pricing measures on ride-hailing services.
The rally highlights the ongoing struggle for fair wages and working conditions in the gig economy.
Also Read: Kolkata: Iconic Yellow Taxis Return As Heritage Cabs Featuring Seatbelts, Airbags And More
Whether or not this campaign will find its way into policy reform, however, remains to be seen, but for now, Hyderabad’s taxi culture is in for a hot debate—both literally and metaphorically.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva (For Representation)
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.
First Published: March 24, 2025 11:33 AM