Uber, Ola, Rapido Drivers Call Nationwide Strike on February 7
Commuters across India may experience travel disruptions on Saturday, February 7, as drivers affiliated with app-based ride-hailing platforms, including Uber, Ola, and Rapido, have announced a nationwide strike. This protest, called the “All India Breakdown,” is expected to see drivers simultaneously switch off their ride-hailing apps.
The strike has been organized by the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) in collaboration with other labor organizations across the country. In a statement on the social media platform X, the union announced that app-based transport workers would participate in the shutdown to raise awareness about issues related to fares, regulations, and working conditions.
In a letter addressed to Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, the union highlighted long-standing and unresolved issues faced by app-based transport workers. According to the union, the lack of government-regulated fare structures for services provided by aggregators such as Uber, Ola, Rapido, and Porter has allowed these companies to set fares independently.
This situation has led to income uncertainty and challenging working conditions for many drivers operating autos, cabs, and bike taxis. The union urged the government to intervene, claiming that drivers are experiencing financial stress while aggregator platforms continue to generate revenue.
Referring to the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines of 2025, the union stated that the framework offers regulatory oversight, transparent fare mechanisms, and measures to protect driver livelihoods. However, it argued that these provisions have not yet been fully implemented.
Among its key demands, the union has called for the immediate notification of minimum base fares for app-based transport services by both the central and state governments. They have also requested that fare decisions be finalized after consultations with recognized driver and worker unions, in accordance with existing guidelines.
Additionally, the union has demanded a ban on the use of private, non-commercial vehicles for commercial passenger and goods transport. Alternatively, they have called for the mandatory conversion of such vehicles into the commercial category, as stipulated in the Motor Vehicles Act and related regulations.
For commuters, the strike may result in limited availability of app-based cabs, autos, and bike taxis, though the extent of the disruption may vary across regions. Passengers are advised to plan for alternative modes of transport on February 7, especially during peak travel hours.
