New Delhi, India — February 7, 2026
A nationwide disruption in ride-hailing services unfolded on Saturday as drivers associated with Ola, Uber, and Rapido launched a coordinated work stoppage, significantly impacting daily commuters across multiple cities.
Driver unions have termed the protest the “All India Breakdown,” under which participating drivers are keeping their mobile apps logged out for the entire day. As a result, cab, auto-rickshaw, and bike taxi availability is expected to remain severely limited.
Why Are Drivers on Strike?
The strike has been jointly called by the Telangana Gig Workers Union along with other driver organizations. In a social media announcement, unions stated that drivers are facing unchecked deductions, unstable incomes, and the absence of a regulated fare structure.
According to union leaders, ride-hailing companies are setting fares arbitrarily due to the lack of government-mandated minimum pricing, leaving drivers financially vulnerable.
Letter Sent to Union Transport Minister
The unions have formally raised their concerns with Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, urging immediate government intervention.
In the letter, drivers argued that without fixed minimum fares, companies continue to reduce payouts unilaterally, making it increasingly difficult for drivers to sustain their livelihoods.
Key Demands from the Government
Driver unions are seeking:
Immediate implementation of minimum fares for auto, taxi, and bike taxi services, finalized through consultations with drivers
A ban on the commercial use of private (white number plate) vehicles, or their mandatory conversion to commercial registration
Stronger regulatory oversight on app-based ride-hailing companies to prevent exploitation
Impact on Commuters
Passengers are likely to face significant travel challenges throughout the day. In many cities, app-based vehicles may be unavailable, and where services do operate, surge pricing could drive fares sharply higher due to limited supply.
Transport experts advise commuters to rely on metro rail, city buses, carpooling, or private vehicles, particularly during peak morning and evening hours. The impact of the strike may vary by city, with some regions experiencing more severe disruptions than others.
As of now, there has been no official response from the ride-hailing companies regarding negotiations or service restoration timelines.
