Gig workers in Ranchi have reported a sharp decline in their earnings as fuel prices increased for the fourth time in 11 days on Monday, raising concerns over the sustainability of their livelihoods. With the latest hike, petrol in Ranchi touched Rs 105.75 per litre and diesel reached Rs 100.89 per litre on Tuesday.
Impact on Daily Operations
Delivery executives, ride partners, and other app-based service providers said the frequent fuel price hikes have significantly increased their daily operational costs, while their income has remained largely stagnant. Nitish Pandey, a gig worker, explained, "We receive a meagre commission of only Rs 12 per kilometre for deliveries. With petrol prices rising steeply, we are left with barely around Rs 5 per kilometre after expenses. While the company pays us based on the distance covered for deliveries, there is no compensation for the return trips."
Worker Testimonies
Rajeev Ranjan, who works at least 16 hours a day, said that after the fuel hike, he is saving just Rs 1,000 a day against Rs 1,200 he earned before. "We have repeatedly urged the company management to revise our compensation in view of the rising fuel prices. However, no action has been taken so far, and we have even been told to quit if we are unable to cope," Rajeev added.
Union Demands
Prateek Mishra, general secretary of the Jharkhand state committee of the All India Gig Workers Union, demanded an immediate fuel allowance for all gig workers. "A minimum income guarantee linked to petrol-diesel prices and inflation should be ensured by the companies. Gig workers should be granted worker status along with all labour rights and social security. The rising costs of fuel, vehicle repairs, mobile recharge, rent, and daily necessities have pushed the real income of gig workers to such a level that they are facing a crisis over their ability to sustain their families and even continue working," Mishra added.
