Cab and Auto Services to Go on One-Day Nationwide Strike Tomorrow

Cab and auto-rickshaw drivers | across India have called for a one-day nationwide strike on Saturday against illegal bike taxi services and the arbitrary fare policies of app-based companies like Ola, Uber, and Rapido. The strike is being led by the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU), with participation from app-based transport workers nationwide.

The union has demanded that the government immediately issue a minimum fare notification. Despite months of protests, drivers claim their demands remain unmet, prompting the decision to suspend services across the country. As a result, app-based cab and auto services are expected to remain shut, likely causing inconvenience to commuters and increasing pressure on public transport and alternative travel options.

Drivers have also raised concerns over illegal bike taxi services, citing fatal accidents in Mumbai and the absence of insurance coverage for passengers. Additionally, they allege financial exploitation in the name of mandatory panic button installations.

The union has written to Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, urging immediate implementation of the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines 2025, which focus on regulatory oversight, fare transparency, and protection of drivers’ livelihoods. They have also demanded that both central and state governments announce a minimum base fare without delay.