Drivers working with app-based cab services like Ola, Uber and Rapido launched a nationwide strike on February 7. They named the protest ‘All India Breakdown’ and said they are taking this step due to what they describe as “endless exploitation”. Drivers associated with Porter and other transport and logistics apps also joined the strike.

No government control over fares

The main reason behind the protest was explained in a letter sent by a drivers’ union to Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari. In the letter, the union pointed out that there is no government-regulated fare system for drivers working with platforms such as Ola, Uber, Rapido and Porter, which operate autos, cabs and bike taxis. According to them, the companies “unilaterally” decide the fares without any official regulation.

The union said this situation has created “severe income insecurity, exploitation, and unsustainable working conditions for millions of transport workers”.

Unions lead protest

The strike was organised by several driver groups, including the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) and other labour organisations.

In a post on X, the TGPWU announced, “App-based transport workers across India will observe an All India Breakdown on 7 Feb 26. No minimum fares. No regulation. Endless exploitation.”

The union also appealed to the government to “act now”, claiming that while companies continue to make profits, many drivers are being pushed into poverty.

Key demands based on 2025 guidelines

The protesting drivers have raised several demands and referred to the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025.

Appoint overseer:
In their letter to Minister Gadkari, the unions said the 2025 guidelines mention regulatory oversight. They want a government-appointed authority to monitor fare transparency and protect drivers’ livelihoods. They demanded that this rule and other related provisions be implemented.

Notify minimum fare:
The unions also asked both central and state governments to quickly announce minimum base fares for app-based transport services. The TGPWU said these fares should be fixed after consulting recognised driver and worker unions, as mentioned in the 2025 guidelines. They pointed out that base fares have been set earlier for traditional taxi services.

Stop taxi use of private vehicles:
Another key demand is to strictly stop the use of private, non-commercial vehicles for commercial passenger and goods transport. Alternatively, they said such vehicles should be converted into commercial-category vehicles if used for these services.

No response from companies yet

So far, the companies have not issued any statement explaining the immediate reasons behind the strike.

Comes after recent delivery workers’ protest

This protest comes just weeks after app-based food and grocery delivery workers went on strike on December 31, 2025. That strike was later called off after companies like Blinkit, Zepto and Swiggy Instamart stopped promoting “10-minute delivery” services, which workers said created extra pressure on them.