India: Unionized autorickshaw drivers in Hyderabad, Telangana State, to begin indefinite strike Oct. 10.

Event

The Telangana Auto Drivers Joint Action Committee (TADJAC) plans to begin an indefinite strike across Hyderabad city, Telangana State, Oct. 10. Organizers are demanding action over various grievances including fare stagnation, allegedly disproportionate penalties by the traffic police, and illegal autorickshaw services. Participants are likely to hold protests during the work stoppage, potentially causing localized disruptions.

The strike may significantly reduce the availability of autorickshaws, increasing demand for alternative transport such as private hire taxis. Attacks on autorickshaws defying the strike call, and other vehicles navigating roadblocks by TADJAC members cannot be ruled out.

Activists may hold sit-ins, street marches, vehicle convoys, and roadblocks; popular protest venues include government buildings, major traffic intersections, and public squares like Dharna Chowk. Authorities will likely monitor any protests and may try to disperse disruptive gatherings. Skirmishes between protesters and police are possible.

Advice

Avoid any protests due to possible skirmishes. Do not navigate roadblocks as demonstrators may react violently. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately for a secure, non-governmental building. Follow all security personnel instructions. Monitor trusted local media for protest details as organizers may not announce them in advance. Allow additional travel time near any rally sites. Confirm road status and transport reservations in Hyderabad from Oct. 10.