The call for strike was given on Monday by Nitesh Rane's Swabhiman Taxi-Rickshaw Union to protest against app-based cab services — Uber, Taxi For Sure and Ola. The union claims that these air-conditioned taxis having been eating into their business share.
With black-and-yellow taxis going on strike on Tuesday, Mumbaikars did what they do best — make do with alternative modes of transport and switch to carpooling. The strike also helped cab aggregators Uber and Ola, against whom the strike was, to do extra business throughout the day.
The call for strike was given on Monday by Nitesh Rane's Swabhiman Taxi-Rickshaw Union to protest against app-based cab services — Uber, Taxi For Sure and Ola. The union claims that these air-conditioned taxis having been eating into their business share.
Mumbaikars were inconvenienced, but they largely blamed the black-and-yellow taxi drivers for "loss of their business". A commuter, Tejas Vaity, tweeted, "Dear Taxi Union, 'stop refusing fares, behave professionally & you'll get back into the game.' #TaxiStrike" Another said taxi drivers should not complain of loss of earnings as they are the ones who have been refusing fares at the drop of a hat.
"Uber is committed to keeping Mumbai moving no matter what and ensuring the city always has a safe, reliable and affordable transportation option. During this strike, our teams and thousands of driver-partners will be working tirelessly to ensure there are Ubers available at the push of a button, so that no commuter is stranded. We continue to work with the authorities to develop a new sector-specific regulatory framework that puts the interests and safety of passengers and drivers first," said Shailesh Sawlani, general manager of Uber Mumbai.
Though extra BEST buses were pressed into service, they were unable to meet the high demand due to additional rush. However, on the plus side, a better part of the day saw traffic-free streets, as 80-90% taxis remained off roads.
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