Cab aggregator Uber has hit back at striking drivers in Pune, condemning acts of “violence and intimidation” that have disrupted services in parts of the city.
In a statement issued on Sunday, an Uber spokesperson said the company took strong objection to pressure tactics employed by protesting driver unions demanding exorbitant fare hikes.
Earlier, we had reported that Uber, OIa drivers have announced an indefinite strike, again, as the negotiations have failed to deliver.
Fare Revision to Make Rides ‘Prohibitively Expensive’
Uber warned that implementing the fare increase sought by unions would make rides up to 60% more costly, rendering them “prohibitively expensive” for a large segment of price-conscious commuters.
“The demand posed to increase cab fares if implemented, will make the rider pay upto 60% more and will make rides prohibitively expensive for a large section of people who depend on us to reliably get around their city,” the spokesperson stated.
The firm argued such steep fare hikes would be detrimental to both riders and driver partners in the long run by depressing overall ride volumes.
Claims Disruptions Due to ‘Violence and Intimidation’
Uber directly accused protesting unions of resorting to intimidation tactics and violence to forcibly suspend cab services across Pune over the past two days.
“We condemn the violence and intimidation of drivers that has led to disruption of services in certain parts of Pune,” the cab aggregator said.
It urged authorities to step in and ensure the freedom of driver partners who wish to continue operating amid the stir called by unions.
Here is the complete statement:
