The Gig & Platform Service Workers Union (GIPSWU) has announced a five-hour nationwide shutdown of app-based transport and delivery services on Saturday, as rising fuel prices trigger growing unrest among gig workers across the country.The union has urged drivers and delivery partners working with platforms such as food delivery and ride-hailing services to remain offline between 12 p.m. and 5 p.m. The protest is aimed at demanding higher per-kilometre earnings and fuel-related compensation following a recent hike in petrol and diesel prices.

The agitation comes after the government increased fuel prices by ₹3 per litre, a move that has intensified concerns among gig workers already dealing with high operational costs. According to the union, the price revision is expected to impact nearly 1.2 crore workers who depend on motorcycles and scooters for their daily income.In a statement, GIPSWU said the rise in fuel prices will directly reduce earnings and could push many workers to leave the sector. The union has demanded that digital platforms revise payout structures and introduce a minimum payment of ₹20 per kilometre to offset rising fuel and maintenance expenses.

Union President Seema Singh warned that the sector could face a significant workforce decline if urgent relief measures are not introduced. She said workers engaged with major platforms such as Swiggy, Zomato, and Blinkit are struggling to manage rising costs, particularly during extreme weather conditions and long working hours in congested traffic.National Coordinator Nirmal Gorana also highlighted the financial strain on gig workers, noting that many are unable to absorb increasing fuel and vehicle maintenance costs without corresponding adjustments in pay.

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He added that women delivery workers face additional challenges due to extended shifts and demanding working conditions.The union said it has submitted formal memorandums to the government and leading digital platforms, urging immediate intervention. Describing the shutdown as a peaceful protest, GIPSWU stated that the action is intended to draw attention to what it called a growing livelihood crisis in India’s expanding gig economy sector.

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