Don't Let Uber Destroy Public Transportation Like It Did to Its Drivers

Public transportation is the backbone of sustainable urban mobility. It provides affordable, reliable, and environmentally friendly options for millions of people every day. By reducing congestion, lowering emissions, and making cities more accessible, public transport plays a vital role in creating livable cities and reducing our carbon footprint.

However, this essential service is under threat.

Companies like Uber are aggressively undermining public transportation systems in many cities around the world. Their business model thrives on convenience and a promise of affordability, but beneath that, there’s a troubling reality. Uber's focus on expanding market share often means undercutting public transit systems, which can have far-reaching negative consequences for cities, commuters, and—perhaps most importantly—drivers.

Trapping drivers in a system where they struggle to make ends meet.

Let’s be clear: Uber's model is not designed to support drivers earning a fair, living wage. In the beginning, Uber promised to pay drivers 70% of each trip. This attracted many people, with some even buying new cars to work full-time for the platform. But once Uber had enough drivers on board, they changed the rules, reducing drivers' pay to as low as 45%, trapping drivers in a system where they struggle to make ends meet.

Once they control the market, they’ll likely raise prices through surge pricing. Imagine paying $50 for a 15-minute ride

I hope the public doesn’t fall for Uber’s tricks like drivers did. They offer low fares now, but if public transportation disappears, Uber will have the power to switch things up—just like they did with drivers. Once they control the market, they’ll likely raise prices through surge pricing. Imagine paying $50 for a 15-minute ride, because Uber will no longer need to compete with affordable public options.

By weakening public transit, Uber creates a situation where more people rely on their services, while public options deteriorate. This monopolization doesn't just hurt drivers who deserve fair wages—it damages cities by increasing congestion and pollution and reducing equitable access to transportation.

Instead of allowing Uber to monopolize urban mobility, we must invest in and protect public transportation. Public transit ensures affordable, reliable travel for everyone, creates consistent jobs and promotes sustainability. Let’s not fall for short-term convenience and lose sight of the bigger picture. We must support public transit and push for fair wages, better policies, and a sustainable future.

#PublicTransit #Sustainability #FairWages #Uber #Transportation

Uber Airbnb Lyft Grubhub DoorDash LinkedIn