Hyderabad, India – The Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) has petitioned the Telangana Labour department for immediate action to address a mounting crisis among drivers working for ride-hailing app Porter.
In a letter submitted to the Commissioner of Labour and Additional Commissioner of Labour, the union outlined concerns that include sustained payout cuts, arbitrary account actions, and a lack of safety safeguards that are driving Porter’s app-based drivers into debt, mental stress, and livelihood insecurity.
The TGPWU has urged the department to intervene in order to restore fair base fares and per-kilometer rates that reflect rising fuel and vehicle maintenance costs. The union’s concerns echo those of many gig workers across India who face similar challenges as the gig economy continues to grow.
The situation has been further exacerbated by the ongoing pandemic, which has led to a decrease in demand for ride-hailing services and added financial strain on drivers.
The TGPWU’s petition comes at a time when the Telangana government is considering regulations for the gig economy. Earlier this year, the state announced plans to introduce legislation that would establish minimum wages, social security benefits, and working conditions for gig workers.
The proposed legislation has been welcomed by labor unions as it could help protect the rights of millions of workers in the growing gig economy.
As the crisis among Porter drivers continues to unfold, the TGPWU’s petition is a call to action for the Telangana Labour department and the government to take steps to address the concerns of gig workers and ensure that they are treated fairly. The union’s intervention is an important step towards improving the lives of gig workers in Telangana and beyond.
