Mumbai: An app-based cab drivers union on Sunday announced a hunger strike unto death at Azad Maidan from Monday, demanding strict enforcement against illegal bike taxis and implementation of govt-approved fares on aggregator platforms. Drivers alleged that despite repeated statements and directives from the transport department, companies such as Ola, Uber and Rapido allegedly continue to violate rules with impunity. The aggregator cab firms have denied these claims. The union leader, Keshav Kshirsagar, alleged the authorities failed to act effectively, even after repeated protests. Calling the situation alarming, drivers said the govt machinery appeared powerless before multinational aggregators. Under the banner of “Give Justice to the Transport Minister,” cab drivers will begin their indefinite fast at Azad Maidan in Mumbai and at multiple locations across the state. Simultaneous protests will also begin at the District Collector’s Office in Pune and Samvidhan Chowk in Nagpur, continuing until their demands are met, Kshirsagar added.
