Private transport unions once again urged the government to fulfil its promise of launching a state-run app for transport aggregators similar to those that are commercially available. This demand, initially raised in January, was brought to the attention of the transport minister Ponnam Prabhakar by a delegation of transport unions. The unions said that such an app could potentially reduce the commission taken by private companies by 30 per cent, benefiting both drivers and passengers.
The unions highlighted that the app would enhance passenger safety, particularly for women travelling at night, by providing increased government supervision. With approximately 40 lakh people employed in the private transport sector, including 10 lakh autorickshaw drivers and 3 lakh cab and taxi operators, the unions argue that the app could have a significant positive impact. At a recent meeting with the unions, the transport minister expressed his support for the initiative and assured them that the government was considering launching the app.
The unions also pressed for the establishment of a Private Transport Welfare Board and the issuance of more permits for new autorickshaws in the state. Shaik Salauddin, founder and state president of the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union, stated, "On March 20, 2024, we submitted a representation to the transport department and the Chief Minister. This app will be a revolution in the transport sector, catering to multiple modes of transport incl.