Impact of Covid-19, Taxi Drivers in Batam Must Fasting or Reduce Food

TRIBUNBATAM.id, BATAM - The impact of Corona virus in Batam hit various sectors of the economy, including informal sector workers.

The punch was felt hard by taxi drivers and motorcycle riders, both online and conventional.

Covid-19 outbreak significantly affected their daily income.

A base motorcycle rider in Engku Putri region, Batam Center, Sofyan Hadi expressed his anxiety as a motorcycle rider with a non-permanent income.

Before Covid-19 outbreak, his job as a motorcycle rider was arguably more than enough for his family's daily needs.

He can even pay bills and installments on the motorbike that he works without arrears.

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However, when this outbreak arose, the situation became very difficult.

He outlines the kinds of costs that must be fulfilled every month as the head of family, namely the cost of food, school, electricity, water, home installments to motorcycles.

"Every month I can spend IDR 5 million just for bills, not including food," Sofyan said.

Currently, he is being frantically pursued by leasing parties who provide motorcycle loans.

This month, he was forced to be in arrears because he had no money at all.

The same is goes to Totok, a conventional taxi driver, who also stays in the same location.

He admitted confusion to meet the daily needs of his family at this time.

Totok has five children who demand to be supported by him.

"If you are young like you, there is no burden, go home and eat, sleep. We are the old people who are dizzy. Every day tens of thousands must be available at the table for eating," said Totok while giggling.