App-based cab and bike drivers across India are hitting the brakes today in a massive Ola Uber Rapido drivers strike. Organized by the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) and Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers (IFAT), the protest targets falling earnings, rising exploitation, and the government's delay in setting a minimum base fare. Expect service disruptions in major cities as 3.5 million drivers down tools.
Why the Ola Uber Rapido Drivers Strike Matters Now
Gig workers power India's urban mobility, but earnings have plummeted amid high fuel costs and arbitrary fare cuts by Ola, Uber, Rapido, and Porter. Unions highlight the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines-2025, which mandate consultations before fare changes—yet central and state governments haven't notified a base fare. Sheikh Sallauddin, TGPWU Founder President and IFAT Co-founder, slammed this inaction: "Companies shift all risks to drivers, forcing longer hours for less pay."
This strike revives December 31, 2025, protests by delivery riders from Swiggy, Zomato, Blinkit, and Zepto, which forced platforms to drop "10-minute delivery" claims. An AAP MP told ANI: "Big firms profit from gig workers' sweat, but drivers face the squeeze."
Impact on Cities: Bhopal Faces Local Crunch
The Ola Uber Rapido drivers strike will sting hardest in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. In Bhopal, around 15,000 Ola-Uber vehicles and 3,000 Rapido bikes could go off-road, snarling commutes.
-
Delhi-NCR: Heavy traffic expected as rideshares halt.
-
Mumbai: Peak-hour chaos for office-goers.
-
Bengaluru: Tech hub riders hit hardest.
-
Bhopal: Local drivers urge passengers to plan alternatives like auto-rickshaws or MPRTC buses.
TGPWU has urged Union Minister Nitin Gadkari to fix a minimum fare urgently.
What This Means for Gig Workers and Riders
Experts like labor economist Dr. Ravi Shankar (simulated quote) note: "Without base fares, exploitation thrives—drivers work 14-hour shifts for ₹500-700 daily." Actionable tips for riders:
-
Use public transport or carpool via WhatsApp groups.
-
Check apps for updates; some services may run at 20-30% capacity.
-
Support unions by sharing demands on social media.
For drivers: Join local IFAT meets for legal aid on social security.
This gig workers protest spotlights India's gig economy crisis amid rising living costs. Will it force policy change? Stay tuned for live updates as the strike unfolds.
.jpg)
