Bolt Drivers in Port Harcourt to Increase Fares, Citing Unfair Pricing
Bolt drivers operating in Port Harcourt, Nigeria are preparing to implement a 50% fare increase on all trips booked through the app. This significant move comes as drivers, united under the Amalgamated Union of App-based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) in Rivers State, strongly protest what they perceive as unsustainable business practices by Bolt. The core grievance centers around Bolt’s alleged reduction of ride prices while simultaneously increasing its commission, thus squeezing driver earnings.
Rising Costs and Unsustainable Practices
The proposed fare hike represents a unified effort to address the financial strain felt by Bolt drivers. Drivers are burdened with all operational costs, which include fuel, vehicle maintenance, data expenses, and the associated risks of operating a vehicle in Port Harcourt. Comrade Dennis, the state task force chairman of AUATON, clarified that drivers receive no financial assistance from Bolt beyond the platform’s role in connecting riders and drivers. The drivers argue that the current pricing structure leaves them with insufficient income, making it challenging to maintain their vehicles and earn a living. The fare increase is explicitly designed to guarantee drivers a fair wage and ensure the long-term viability of their operations. The drivers will implement the 50% increase unless a surge pricing of at least 1.5 times is in place.
The situation highlights a recurring challenge within Africa’s burgeoning ride-hailing industry. Drivers often grapple with fluctuating fuel prices, vehicle upkeep, and the commissions charged by app-based companies. This has spurred similar protests and calls for better compensation across the continent, as drivers demand a fair share of the profits generated by these platforms.
Keywords
Related Keywords: Bolt drivers Port Harcourt, Bolt fare hike, Bolt price increase, Bolt drivers protest, Bolt fare slashing, Port Harcourt transportation, ridehailing prices, Bolt Port Harcourt, driver earnings Bolt, Bolt Nigeria
