Talk of the Town: Chennai’s auto drivers to go on a 12-hour strike

Auto drivers are upset about unmet demands and are protesting against integration of QR code; claim bike taxis have added to their woes
What is it?
Auto drivers in Chennai have announced a 12-hour strike today, March 19, from 6am to 6pm. The protest is against the Greater Chennai Police’s (GCP) decision to enforce a QR code system in autorickshaws and cabs. While the initiative aims to boost passenger safety, drivers argue that it adds to their challenges without addressing their long-standing grievances, such as fare revisions and a ban on bike taxis.
Why is it happening?
The QR code system, introduced on March 8, is designed to enhance safety with real-time monitoring and an SOS feature. However, drivers claim they are being pressured to integrate the system without their core issues being resolved.
Despite a 2022 Madras High Court directive, the government is yet to revise auto fares. Unions demand a hike in the minimum fare to ₹50, with ₹25 per additional kilometre, from the current ₹25 for the first 1.8km and ₹12 per kilometre thereafter, informs Senthyil Mani, an auto driver actively involved in the protest.
Rise of bike taxis
Auto unions are also frustrated with the rise of bike taxis, which they say have reduced their daily income significantly. Many bike taxi operators are part-timers, creating tough competition for full-time drivers, they claim. Drivers also criticised private ride-hailing apps for hidden charges and urged the government to launch its own app to ensure fair fares and earnings.
A plea to the government
Speaking about longstanding approvals for the survival of auto drivers in Chennai, Senthyil Mani adds, “Union leaders have reiterated their demand for Chief Minister MK Stalin to fulfil his promise of a ₹10,000 subsidy for purchasing new autorickshaws. Despite previous protests, their pleas remain unanswered.”