Cab drivers block a road in Saida, South Lebanon, June 4, 2022. (Courtesy of: Muntasser Abdallah)
BEIRUT — The Taxi Drivers' Gathering, a union group, said they planned to protest on Tuesday in Beirut against poor working conditions and competition from ride-sharing apps.
"We announce the beginning of an unprecedented mobilization from Tuesday, May 2, to demand the end of violations committed by private vehicles, motorcycles, illegal applications [such as Uber or Bolt] and tuk-tuks," said the drivers in a statement reported by several local media Monday.
This decision comes "in view of the absence of the state and the failure of the ministries concerned to fulfill their duties towards the transport sector," the statement added.
The drivers reportedly plan to gather on Tuesday at 2 p.m. in downtown Beirut's Martyrs' Square.
"We apologize in advance to motorists who will be stuck in their cars. We have no other choice," the statement added.
Cab drivers protested multiple times in 2022 to demand that the government provide free gas and other benefits and clamp down on ride-sharing apps Uber and Bolt.
Meanwhile, Uber drivers have gone on strike several times to protest against the company's fares, which they consider too low given inflation and increased fuel prices. Bolt motorcycle drivers have also protested with the same demands.