On July 23, 2024, taxi unions across Colombia are set to stage a nationwide strike. The protest aims to voice concerns over the operations of ride-sharing apps like Uber, Cabify, InDrive, and Didi. Hugo Ospina, one of the union representatives, expressed that there has not been a sufficient response from the Bogotá Mayor’s office or the national government regarding illegal transportation.
Manuel Gil, another family leader within the taxi community, emphasized that “illegality is overwhelming.” He pointed out that competition from unregulated motorcycle and private car services is driving many traditional taxi drivers into bankruptcy. This has led them to unite in solidarity for this national strike.
The taxi unions are also highlighting the economic strain caused by any lack of regulations, which prevents them from competing fairly with these apps. They further stated that they receive little assistance from authorities in tackling crime, particularly as some criminal gangs pose as taxi drivers to target victims.
The rise in crimes associated with this façade has led many users to seek safer alternatives in ride-sharing apps, allowing them to establish prices before their trips. Gil elaborated that their demands for a strike are aimed at urging Mayor Galán to enforce the law, including revoking licenses and seizing vehicles used for illegal transport.
In addition to their concerns about competition, the unions are also advocating for immediate actions against a group of motorcyclists known as “Los Picaminosos,” who have reportedly engaged in abuses against police forces. Ospina wrote to Mayor Galán, highlighting that in cities like Bucaramanga, Medellín, and Cali, authorities struggle to operate in certain areas due to violence.
This nationwide strike will occur in several key cities, including Santa Marta, Cartagena, Cali, Medellín, Bucaramanga, Cúcuta, Pasto, and Barranquilla. The taxi unions criticized mayors for not taking action against illegal transport practices involving personal vehicles and motorcycles.
In response, council member Julián Forero assured that the rights of drivers are a priority, aiming to find solutions that secure fair working conditions for everyone using their vehicles and motorcycles for livelihood. He also posed the question of whether it should be up to passengers to decide how to regulate digital platforms.
As the taxi unions prepare for their nationwide protests, they are calling for peaceful demonstrations to minimize disruptions to public transportation. In light of the upcoming strike, the Mayor’s office in Cartagena has announced that classes will be suspended at all public and private schools on July 23.
Image and News Source: https://www.infobae.com/colombia/2024/07/22/estos-son-los-puntos-de-concentracion-del-paro-nacional-de-taxistas-el-23-de-julio-en-bogota/
