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Drivers Shutdown Uber and Bolt Apps in KwaZulu-Natal Over Safety Concerns
Uber and Bolt drivers in KwaZulu-Natal have embarked on a protest and have vowed to continue until their grievances are met.
In preparation for the shutdown, drivers have parked in various areas around the province.
KwaZulu-Natal Uber and Bolt Drivers Sets To Protest
This impactful development is being taken in response to several critical issues affecting the livelihood and safety of drivers and vehicle owners who operate on these platforms.
This is according to the Chairperson of the council, Sipho Mabika.
He further highlighted that there will be a shutdown of e-hailing apps in Durban, Pietermaritzburg, Richards Bay and Port Shepstone.
He said, “The Council wishes to inform you of an upcoming e-hailing service shutdown in KwaZulu-Natal which will affect the areas of Durban, Pietermaritzburg (PMB), Richards Bay, and Port Shepstone.”
“This shutdown will commence on Monday 16 September 2024 until further notice. This action is being taken in response to several critical issues affecting the livelihood and safety of drivers and vehicle owners who operate on these platforms.”
Mabika went on to highlight the concerns raised about driver safety. He pointed out that app users must register with a valid Identity Document and undergo a face recognition process ensuring that the identity of every user is verified.
“This will greatly enhance the safety of both drivers and passengers,” he said.
Also Read: Bolt and Uber Could Raise Prices in Kenya Due to Government’s 6% ‘Significant Presence’ Tax
KwaZulu-Natal Uber and Bolt Drivers Tables Concerns
Note, that the KwaZulu-Natal E-hailing Council was formed by collective leaders from different associations and geographical organizations who share a common interest of achieving financial and business objectives. This structure seeks to protect and govern E-Hailing operations in the province.
Uber and Bolt drivers in the KwaZulu-Natal region are protesting a plethora of unfair practices and policies by the app companies operating in the province.
One of them is the matter of vehicle age restriction currently pegged at three years.
According to the council, the restriction is unrealistic because it means most drivers will hardly finish paying off their vehicles before they will need to purchase a new one.
Another concern that the drivers are protesting against is the excessive commissions extracted by the app companies.
The chairperson of the council highlighted that the current commission structure is unsustainable. While the official commission is pegged at 30 per cent, the chairperson said drivers and vehicle owners lose up to 40-50 per cent on some trips.
“This has led to severe financial strain, making it difficult for us to cover basic expenses such as fuel and vehicle maintenance,” the chairperson said.
Finally, the council apologized for the inconvenience the strike is causing their customers.
“We strive to create a fair and safe working environment for all e-hailing service providers.”
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