Cab drivers, worried by the reform of health insurance reimbursements for medical transport, are gearing up for a major day of mobilization this Monday, March 4, 2024. The main access routes to the capital, notably the freeways and the ring road, are likely to be the scene of major disruptions from the morning onwards.
A large-scale mobilization is expected. The FNAT and FNDT unions, the voice of cab drivers, have called for a nationwide mobilization. In the Île-de-France region, participation is expected to be massive, with over 2,000 cabs expected to turn out. Starting at 8 a.m., taxis are expected to slow down traffic considerably, notably through strategically organized "escargot" operations.
Emmanuelle Cordier, head of the Fédération nationale des cabs, emphasizes the "grassroots" origin of this movement. This spontaneous approach could make these demonstrations less predictable and more difficult to manage than previous ones.
According to Le Parisien, processions from all over the Paris region have been announced. Gathering points have been set up in neighbouring départements, from where processions will head for Paris. These will use the main freeways - from the A1 to the A6 - to converge on the capital.
The Place du Trocadéro was planned as the venue for a large rally at 11am. However, in the absence of confirmation from the prefecture, the organizers may retreat to the Invalides, better suited to accommodate the flow of participants.
At the heart of the demands is a contested reform: the decision to reduce reimbursement rates for medical transport by 30% is seen as an unacceptable step backwards for cabs, already affected by competition from VTCs.
This day of mobilization is part of a wider context of social unrest, reminiscent of the difficulties encountered by other professions, such as farmers.
Users urged to exercise caution. Authorities and organizers are urging motorists to plan ahead and stay informed of developments on this day, which promises to be a real test of the profession's ability to make its voice heard.
