In a recent meeting held at the Transport Commissionerate in Mumbai on February 16th, representatives from the Indian Gig Workers’ Front (IGF) engaged with Maharashtra’s Transport Commissioner to address critical issues affecting cab drivers. Dr. Keshav Kshirsagar, President of the Indian Gig Workers’ Front, provided insights into the discussions, which primarily centered around the challenges faced by rickshaw and cab drivers, specifically the non-enforcement of revised fixed fares. The Transport Commissioner, Vivek Bhimanwar, assured prompt action to resolve the matter.
Commitment to Address Cab Drivers’ Concerns
During the meeting, the concerns raised by representatives from Team IGF Cabs, including Major Ghuge and Ashok Dhakane, highlighted the urgency of implementing the revised fixed fares to alleviate financial stress on cab drivers. The Transport Commissioner, accompanied by Deputy Transport Commissioner Jitendra Patil and Deputy Commissioner of the Regional Transport Office (RTO) Pune, Sanjeev Bhor, expressed a commitment to swiftly address the issues at hand.
Background on the Revised Cab Fares Issue
The meeting followed the announcement of a strike by cab drivers in Pune, in collaboration with the IGF Cabs Association, scheduled for February 20, 2024. The strike was declared in response to the failure of several cab companies to comply with the revised cab fares mandated by the Pune District Collector. Despite these companies operating without valid licenses, no punitive actions have been taken against them. Consequently, cab drivers, grappling with financial hardships, plan to stage a vigorous protest and indefinite strike at RTO Pune, seeking the enforcement of the revised cab rates.
Assurances for Timely Resolution
The assurances provided by the Transport Commissioner to swiftly address the concerns of cab drivers indicate a positive step towards resolving the ongoing issue. The commitment to implementing the revised fixed fares is crucial for the welfare of cab drivers who have been grappling with economic challenges.
