With the Delhi Metro is yet to resume operations, a large section of those travelling to work is dependent on app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for commute, due to the lack of pick and drop facilities by their employers.
But from Tuesday many are having a tough time, travelling across Delhi NCR as drivers of cab aggregators Ola and Uber in Delhi-NCR have gone on on a strike demanding an extension of the moratorium on loan repayment and a hike in fare in view of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Around 2 lakh drivers of the cab services have given the strike call as their appeals have not led to any action by the government, said Kamaljeet Singh Gill, the president of Sarvodaya Drivers Association of Delhi.
"Due to the acute financial crisis caused by lockdown, drivers are unable to pay their EMIs. The moratorium of loan repayment ended today and the banks are already putting pressure on us. Drivers are scared that banks will tow away their vehicles for not paying EMIs," Gill said.
The cab drivers have also demanded that fare be hiked and commission increased by Ola and Uber. Gill said the fare should be fixed by the government instead of the cab aggregators.
"Most of the drivers are finding it difficult to feed their families at this time and have no means to fulfil their financial obligations. Unless the government helps us, there is no way we can work without fear of losing our vehicles," Gill said.
The drivers have also demanded the withdrawal of "heavy penalties" against them for speed limit violations.
Cabs including Ola and Uber had resumed services in Delhi and other cities in mid-May when Lockdown 4.0 came into effect.
However, the nearly two months that they were forced to remain off the roads had taken a heavy toll on them, especially the drivers who are independent contractors.
Many of them who had loans for their cars have struggled to repay them and to feed their families.
Even after the cab services were allowed to resume under Lockdown 4.0, following COVID-19 protocols they have struggled to survive as commuters were still reluctant to use public transport due to the fear of catching the virus.