Bike-taxi drivers rue low salaries

Amit Bathla

Tribune News Service

Bathinda, June 19

Cab service provider Ola has been offering its bike-taxi services for the last two months in the city and it seems to be gaining more and more customers. In view of this, it is looking to expand its business by launching its cab services by the end of July. 

But, before it does so, the company needs to clear several hurdles. Its registered bike owners are dissatisfied with the company and are not working regularly.

Officials said most registered drivers kept engaged in the alternative medium of earning. According to the company’s city incharge Rajpal Singh, 300 to 350 bike owners were registered, but only 30 to 40 worked regularly.

Rajpal said: “New people are joining us. At the same time, many are leaving too. The company pays Rs 5 per km to motorbike taxi drivers. Incentives are also provided to them.”

Bike-taxi drivers, on the other hand, were of view that the services would not last long. Some felt they were not being paid well. 

An Ola motorbike-taxi driver, Aman (32), said: “I used to work as a security guard. Though I earn better than  earlier, I am not satisfied with the company offers.”