Unions protest against difference between government meter and app fares

Auto rickshaw unions have expressed concern regarding the difference between government-approved meter fares and the fares charged by ride-hailing apps. According to a report by The Hindu, auto rickshaw drivers have demanded protective measures to ensure minimum earnings for drivers and to bring parity between both fare methods.

Two major unions named Telangana Auto Motor Driver Union and Telangana Auto Drivers Federation have submitted a letter to Transport Commissioner K. Elambarithi presenting their 10 demands. These demands include a request to hold a meeting with auto rickshaw drivers and cab unions to hear their views regarding welfare, social security, and grievance redressal.

The unions have also demanded regulations to manage the minimum payment received by drivers, the commission charged by ride-hailing apps, and other fees. Additionally, the unions have demanded strict implementation of the aggregator policy as per the Central Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025.

According to a report by The Hindu, the unions have also raised the issue that various ride-hailing apps show different fares for the same route. Therefore, they have demanded a clear government policy regarding fares. It has been demanded that this policy should specify minimum and maximum fares, regulate dynamic pricing, prevent unauthorized additional charges, and ensure fair competition among service providers.