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App-Based Transport Workers Strike Nationwide Over Falling Incomes

App-based transport workers associated with platforms like Ola, Uber, and Rapido are observing a nationwide "breakdown" strike on Saturday. The action, called by major unions, protests falling incomes and the government's failure to notify minimum base fares under the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025. Workers demand immediate fare regulation and a ban on private vehicles being used for commercial transport. The strike involves drivers cancelling rides or switching off their apps entirely.

Key Points: Ola, Uber Drivers Strike Over Fare Guidelines, Exploitation

  • Protest falling incomes
  • Demand minimum base fares
  • Halt to private vehicle misuse
  • Nationwide app shutdown
2 min read

App-based transport workers to observe nationwide strike today

App-based transport workers across India go on strike, demanding minimum base fares and protesting worsening working conditions on platforms like Ola and Uber.

"breakdown has been called to protest against falling incomes and 'worsening exploitation' - Union Statement"

New Delhi, Feb 7

App-based transport workers across the country associated with Ola, Uber, Rapido, Porter and other app-based ride-hailing platforms will observe "breakdown" on Saturday against falling incomes and "worsening exploitation".

Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) and Indian Federation of App Based Transport Workers (IFAT) have called the All-India 'breakdown'.

They said on Friday that the 'breakdown' has been called to protest against falling incomes and 'worsening exploitation' due to the failure of governments to notify minimum base fares under the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025.

Shaik Salahuddin, TGPWU founder President and IFAT co-founder and National General Secretary, said that despite the guidelines, aggregator companies continue to unilaterally fix fares, pushing workers into unsustainable working conditions.

The key demands of the unions include immediate notification of minimum base fares for app-based transport services in consultation with recognised worker unions, as mandated under the Aggregator Guidelines, 2025.

They are also demanding strict prohibition of private (non-commercial) vehicles being used for commercial passenger and goods transport, or mandatory conversion to commercial category vehicles as per the Motor Vehicles Act and Aggregator Guidelines, 2025.

TGPWU and IFAT have urged the Central and state governments to initiate immediate dialogue with worker representatives and ensure fair, lawful, and sustainable regulation of the app-based transport sector.

Salahuddin told IANS that auto-rickshaw and cab drivers of Ola, Uber, Porter and other platforms will participate in the strike by either cancelling ride requests or switch off their ride-hailing apps altogether.

According to TGPWU founder President, Telangana alone has about 2.5 lakh autorickshaw drivers, 1.5 lakh cab drivers and about 50,000 Porter drivers.

TGPWU had earlier sent a letter to the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, Telangana Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar and other officials, informing them about the decision to observe All-India 'breakdown'.

It demanded immediate notification of minimum bus fares by the Central and state government for app-based transport services (autos, cabs, bike taxis, and other aggregator-based services) to be finalised in consultation with recognised driver and worker unions.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As a frequent user, I've noticed drivers are more stressed these days. I don't mind paying a bit more if it means they get a fair wage. This strike is inconvenient for us, but their demands seem completely valid.
V
Vikram M
The point about private vehicles used commercially is crucial. It creates unfair competition and safety issues for passengers. Rules are there in the Motor Vehicles Act, they just need to be enforced strictly. Hope the government listens this time.
A
Ananya R
My brother drives for Uber. He works 12-14 hours just to make ends meet. The companies keep increasing their commission. This 'breakdown' was long overdue. Solidarity with all gig workers! ✊
D
David E
While I support fair wages, a blanket nationwide minimum fare might not work. Cost of living varies massively between Mumbai and a tier-3 city. The solution needs to be nuanced, not a one-size-fits-all mandate from Delhi.
P
Priya S
This affects everyone. If drivers are exploited, service quality drops, and safety can be compromised. The government needs to mediate talks immediately. These platforms are essential for urban mobility now.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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