KATHMANDU: Drivers affiliated with ride-hailing platforms, including inDrive, Pathao and Yango, staged a protest on Friday demanding lower commission rates and a revision of fare structures.
The demonstration was held outside inDrive’s office in Kupandole, where drivers complained that commission charges are too high while passenger fares remain too low. The protest was led by the Independent Drivers Foundation Nepal.
Protesters carried placards with slogans such as “Low fares, high commissions—we won’t tolerate it anymore,” “Value our labour, protect drivers’ lives,” “Reduce commissions, ensure justice,” and “Stop exploiting ride-hailing drivers.”
According to Foundation Chair Reshma Bisunke, drivers have also been forced to bear the burden of the 5 percent Value Added Tax (VAT) introduced from the beginning of the new fiscal year.
She said drivers continue to pay the same level of commissions despite unchanged fare rates, further reducing their earnings.
The drivers have been protesting for the past three days. After holding demonstrations in Lalitpur for two days, they also staged a protest at Maitighar Mandala in Kathmandu on Friday.
The protesters have called on the government and ride-sharing companies to introduce a scientific and fair fare structure, reduce company commissions and ensure fair compensation for drivers’ labour.
Comment