Unions demand ban on app-based auto service

INDORE: Unhappy with increasing number of app-based cab and auto-rickshaw services running in city, members of Indore Auto-rickshaw Chalak Mahasangh have demanded immediate ban on all app-based operators.
"App-based taxi services including both cab and auto-rickshaws have been affecting our business and we cannot sit silent. Authorities should stop their services as most of the app-based cab operators are not following the rules," said Mahasang founder Rajesh Bidkar.
Bidkar further alleged that app-based operators are often charging more than the normal fare. "Sometimes they take charge extra for waiting time that too during day hours. They do not operate on meter basis," he said, while adding that these operators usually charge very less on first two kilometre and then charge more than normal fare decided by government.
Even passengers prefer to opt for these app-based services while we wait for long hours to get passengers, said Bidkar. The earnings of traditional auto-rickshaws have gone down after these app-based service providers started running taxi and auto-rickshaws in Indore, he rued.
There are more than 20,000 auto-rickshaws plying on the streets of Indore. Of them, around 1,500 auto-rickshaws gone with app-based operators like Uber, Ola, Jugnoo, Tuk-Tuk and Chal Meri Dhanno.
Mahasangh members met the traffic police authorities and demanding immediate action against these app-based cab and auto-rickshaw service providers.
They alleged that these operators are taking away the livelihood of traditional auto rickshaw drivers. Meanwhile, they have also threatened to go on strike if their demand is not met.