Commuters across India may face travel disruptions today as drivers working with Ola, Uber, and Rapido have launched a nationwide strike. The protest has been named the “All India Breakdown.” Thousands of app-based drivers are expected to log out for at least six hours. Cab, auto-rickshaw, and bike taxi services are likely to be affected. The strike aims to draw attention to long-standing grievances.

The strike has been called by the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union, with support from labor groups across the country. The union has accused ride-hailing companies of following unfair pricing practices. It claims that aggregator platforms continue to decide fares on their own. This, according to the union, happens despite existing government guidelines. Drivers say this has pushed many into financial distress.

One major issue raised by the drivers is the absence of regulated minimum fares. The union alleges that fares are fixed arbitrarily by companies, making incomes unpredictable. Drivers say low fares do not cover fuel, maintenance, and commission costs. As a result, many are forced to work longer hours. The union has urged the government to step in immediately.

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The drivers have placed two key demands before the government. The first is the notification of minimum base fares for all app-based transport services. These fares, they say, should be fixed in consultation with recognized worker unions. The second demand is a strict ban on the use of private vehicles for commercial ride services. Drivers argue this practice affects their earnings and violates rules.

The February 7 strike is part of a broader wave of protests by gig workers across India. In recent months, food delivery and quick-commerce workers have also staged demonstrations. Issues such as low pay, long working hours, and lack of protection have been highlighted. The Economic Survey 2025–26 also flagged concerns around gig employment. Together, these developments point to growing unrest in the platform-based work sector.

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