Chandigarh: Thousands of commuters across Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula are expected to face transportation challenges this week after app-based taxi operators launched a phased protest demanding a revision in fare structures.
Under the agitation, drivers associated with platforms such as Ola, Uber and inDrive have announced that they will suspend passenger services daily between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. until June 16. The move is likely to impact nearly 50,000 daily commuters who depend on ride-hailing services for office travel, hospital visits and other essential journeys.
The protesting drivers argue that operating costs have increased significantly over the years due to repeated hikes in fuel prices, while the officially prescribed fare has remained unchanged. They claim that the current rate of Rs 25 per kilometre no longer covers expenses related to CNG, petrol, diesel, vehicle maintenance and other operational costs.
Driver representatives have demanded that the fare be revised to Rs 35 per kilometre, stating that they have approached the Chandigarh administration on multiple occasions but are yet to receive a satisfactory response.
With app-based cab availability expected to remain limited during the protest hours, commuters have been advised to explore alternative modes of transport. The Chandigarh Transport Undertaking (CTU) will continue operating its extensive network of buses connecting Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula, with services available at intervals of around 15 to 20 minutes on several major routes.
The public bus system covers important destinations, including government hospitals, inter-state bus terminals, the railway station and major residential and commercial sectors, offering a viable option for passengers during the ongoing agitation. Auto-rickshaws are also expected to witness higher demand as residents adjust to the temporary disruption in cab services.
The fare dispute has once again highlighted the growing concerns of transport operators over rising fuel costs and the need for periodic revisions in regulated pricing to ensure sustainable operations.
