Commuters in several Indian cities may face disruptions on February 7 as drivers associated with app-based mobility platforms such as Uber, Ola and Rapido prepare to go off-app as part of a coordinated nationwide protest.
The strike has been organized primarily by the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU), in coordination with other national labour bodies representing gig workers. The union announced the protest on X (formerly Twitter) and in a formal letter addressed to Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari.
https://x.com/TGPWU/status/2018046989951484152?s=20
Why the drivers are protesting?
The main reasons for the strike revolve around long-standing grievances over earnings, pricing control, and lack of regulatory protection.
A central grievance raised by driver groups relates to fare determination. Drivers allege that platforms continue to set fares unilaterally, often at levels they say are not viable once fuel costs, vehicle maintenance, platform commissions and daily expenses are factored in. They argue that despite Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025 existence, minimum base fares have not been formally notified or enforced across states.
Another key concern is income volatility. Drivers say their earnings are increasingly dependent on incentives and surge pricing, which are unpredictable and subject to frequent changes. Many claim they are working longer hours to maintain previous income levels, with little clarity on how fares are calculated or revised.
Key Demands
The TGPWU has outlined clear demands in their letter and public statements:
- Immediate notification of minimum base fares by central and state governments for all app-based transport services (cabs, autos, bike taxis, etc.), after consultation with recognized drivers’ unions.
- Strict enforcement against the commercial use of private vehicles (ban or mandatory conversion to commercial category with proper registration, insurance, and taxes).
The union emphasized in its announcement: “App-based transport workers across India will observe an All India Breakdown on 7 Feb 26. No minimum fares. No regulation. Endless exploitation.”
The protest call came just one day after the official launch of Bharat Taxi in Delhi, a government-supported cooperative ride-hailing initiative. Promoted as a driver-centric alternative, it features no commission per ride, no surge pricing, and a model aimed at giving drivers greater ownership and better earnings. Online discussions have raised questions about whether the timing is connected to Bharat Taxi's entry, as it could put additional pressure on private aggregators to address driver grievances.
The strike is expected to impact urban commute options in major cities, especially during peak hours on a Saturday. Commuters may face longer wait times, surge pricing (if some drivers remain online), or need to rely on alternative transport like metro, buses, taxis, or personal vehicles.
The planned protest is part of a broader pattern of mobilisation by gig and platform workers, as debates around regulation, worker protections and fair compensation in India’s gig economy continue to intensify.