Rs 25/Km, Ban on Private Taxis: 2 Demands Fueling Nationwide Drivers Strike
A nationwide strike by app-based taxi drivers has disrupted ride-hailing services across several Indian cities, with unions citing two core demands — a minimum fare of Rs 25 per kilometre and a ban on private taxis operating under aggregator platforms. Drivers associated with Ola, Uber, and other ride-hailing apps say the protest reflects growing frustration over falling incomes, rising costs, and what they describe as an uneven playing field in the transport sector.
The day-long strike has drawn participation from drivers in major cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Pune, and Kolkata, affecting cab availability and causing inconvenience to commuters during peak hours.
What Are the Two Key Demands?
Driver unions leading the protest say the strike is centred on two non-negotiable demands.
First, drivers are seeking a minimum fare of Rs 25 per kilometre for app-based taxi services. They argue that current fare structures no longer cover basic operational expenses such as fuel, vehicle maintenance, insurance, and loan repayments. With fuel prices remaining high and incentive payouts reduced, many drivers claim they are earning far less than before despite working extended hours.
Second, unions are demanding a ban on private taxis operating under app-based aggregators, calling for stricter regulation of ride-hailing platforms. According to drivers, the unchecked entry of private vehicles has increased competition, reduced trip frequency per driver, and driven fares down further.
Why Are Drivers Protesting Now?
Driver representatives say their earnings have steadily declined over the past few years due to repeated fare cuts and frequent changes in incentive policies. Many allege that commission charges by aggregator companies have remained high, leaving drivers with a smaller share of each trip fare.
Unions claim that several drivers are struggling to meet daily expenses and loan EMIs, with some forced to exit the profession altogether. They argue that without government intervention and fare regulation, the app-based taxi model has become financially unsustainable for drivers.
Impact on Ola, Uber and Other Cab Services
The strike has led to limited cab availability in several cities, with many commuters reporting longer waiting times on Ola and Uber apps. In high-demand areas, passengers have also faced surge pricing due to reduced supply.
Airport routes, railway stations, and office hubs have been particularly affected, especially during morning and evening rush hours. While some drivers have continued operating, unions say participation may increase as the protest gains momentum.
Advice for Commuters
Passengers are advised to:
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Plan travel in advance
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Use public transport such as metro and buses
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Consider carpooling or alternate travel options
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Monitor live updates on cab availability
Commuters relying heavily on app-based taxis may face continued disruption if the strike extends or escalates.
What Have the Companies Said?
Ola and Uber have stated that they are in dialogue with driver partners and are committed to improving earning opportunities while maintaining affordability for riders. The companies have emphasised that their pricing models aim to balance demand, supply, and operational sustainability.
However, no official announcement addressing the Rs 25/km demand or restrictions on private taxis has been made so far.
Could the Strike Escalate Further?
Driver unions have warned that if their demands are not met, the protest could intensify in the coming days. Some groups have hinted at longer strikes or coordinated shutdowns of services across states.
Experts say prolonged unrest could impact consumer confidence in ride-hailing platforms and prompt authorities to step in with regulatory measures for the sector.
What Happens Next?
Talks between driver unions, aggregator companies, and government authorities are expected following the strike. The outcome of these discussions will determine whether services return to normal or whether further nationwide protests are announced.
For now, commuters are advised to stay alert and prepare for continued disruptions as the situation unfolds.
❓ FAQs
Q1. Why are Ola and Uber drivers on strike?
Drivers are protesting low fares, rising costs, and demanding a minimum Rs 25 per km fare along with a ban on private taxis under aggregators.
Q2. What is the Rs 25 per km demand?
Drivers want Rs 25 per km as the minimum fare to cover fuel, maintenance, and loan expenses.
Q3. Will Ola and Uber services be affected today?
Yes, cab availability may be limited in major cities due to the day-long strike.
Q4. Which cities are affected by the drivers strike?
Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Pune, and other major cities.
