Telangana Gig Workers and Drivers Announce Indefinite Strike from Saturday

Residents across Telangana may experience significant disruption to app based transport and delivery services as gig workers and commercial drivers have announced an indefinite strike beginning Saturday. The Joint Action Committee representing multiple worker associations said the protest comes after repeated demands for policy reforms and welfare measures remained unaddressed.

The strike is expected to impact a wide range of online services, including app based taxi operations and food and grocery deliveries. Ride hailing platforms and delivery networks operating across Hyderabad and other districts are likely to witness major service interruptions as thousands of workers stay away from duty.

According to the Joint Action Committee, nearly four lakh drivers and gig workers are expected to participate in the statewide protest. Representatives from sixteen worker unions reached the decision during a meeting held in Hyderabad, stating that repeated appeals to the government had not resulted in meaningful action.

The protesting workers are demanding the introduction of legally notified base fares for app based transport services along with fair charges calculated per kilometre and per minute. They also want policies that ensure stable earnings for drivers, delivery partners, and other platform workers who depend on digital applications for their livelihood.

Another key demand is the establishment of a dedicated welfare board for gig and platform workers under the proposed Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Rules. Union leaders also want the government to implement minimum fare guidelines in line with motor vehicle aggregator regulations and prevent privately registered vehicles from operating commercial passenger services without proper registration.

The Joint Action Committee recalled that soon after the present state government assumed office, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy had interacted with gig workers and drivers and reportedly assured them of a welfare board and a government supported transport application. However, worker representatives claim those commitments have yet to be implemented, prompting them to intensify their protest.

Union leaders also pointed out that a similar protest was organised earlier, but the issues affecting drivers and delivery personnel remain unresolved. They argue that declining incomes, rising operational expenses, and low platform fares have made it increasingly difficult for workers to sustain their livelihoods.

With app based transport, food delivery, and grocery delivery services expected to remain unavailable during the strike, commuters and consumers across Telangana are advised to prepare for possible delays and limited service availability until discussions between the government and worker representatives lead to a resolution.