New Delhi: App-based cab and bike taxi drivers affiliated with Ola, Uber and Rapido went on a nationwide strike on Tuesday, stepping up pressure on the government to introduce stricter regulations in the ride-hailing sector. The protest, which has led to service disruptions in several cities, is centred on two key demands: government-regulated minimum fares and restrictions on the commercial use of private vehicles under app-based platforms.
Driver unions say unchecked fare fluctuations, rising fuel and maintenance costs, and algorithm-driven pricing have sharply reduced earnings, pushing many drivers into financial distress. They also argue that allowing privately registered vehicles to operate commercially through ride-hailing apps has resulted in oversupply and unfair competition. With thousands of drivers logging off the apps, commuters in major cities reported longer wait times and higher surge pricing. Union leaders warned that the agitation could intensify if the government fails to act, while platform companies are yet to issue a formal response.
