No Uber, No Ola, No Rapido—What’s Behind Drivers' Indefinite Strike In Mumbai?

Thousands of commuters across Mumbai are facing extended wait times and a lack of available app-based cabs as drivers associated with platforms like Uber, Ola, and Rapido continue their strike that began on July 15. The protest has left several areas, particularly transport hubs and business districts, struggling to cope with the fallout, as drivers demand improved earnings, policy reforms, and protection under labor regulations.

The protest has been particularly visible in key regions such as the airport vicinity, Bandra-Kurla Complex, Andheri, and South Mumbai. Many drivers claim they are no longer able to sustain themselves due to poor net earnings, which plummet after deductions from aggregator commissions and rising fuel costs.

Some drivers revealed they take home as little as Rs 8 to Rs 12 per kilometre, a figure that they say doesn’t even cover basic expenses. The situation has grown more severe due to the lack of a regulatory framework that addresses their concerns or provides a safety net.

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What The Drivers Are Asking For

The ongoing agitation is being steered by multiple unions, including the Maharashtra Gig Kamgar Manch, the Maharashtra Rajya Rashtriya Kamgar Sangh, and the Indian Gig Workers Front. Their demands are a mix of economic and regulatory changes.

The protesters are calling for fare parity with Mumbai’s traditional black-and-yellow taxis. Other key demands include banning bike taxi services, capping new permits for autos and kaali-peeli cabs, and creating a welfare board for drivers working with app-based platforms. They also want the state to introduce a Maharashtra Gig Workers' Act, which would legally safeguard their rights.

A major pain point for the drivers has been platform-based discounts, which they allege are being deducted from their earnings. They argue that if companies wish to offer discounts, the cost should be borne by the platforms themselves.

Policy Still In Limbo

Although the Maharashtra government had earlier announced plans to introduce guidelines for aggregator services, the draft policy remains stuck in limbo. The proposal, which includes licensing rules, fare regulation, and enforcement measures, has yet to receive final clearance.

This regulatory vacuum has led to rising friction between drivers, platforms, and passengers, with no effective mechanism in place to resolve disputes or ensure fair treatment.

Travel Disruptions Mount

With the strike still ongoing, passengers—especially those heading to the airport—are bearing the brunt. In a public advisory posted on X (formerly Twitter), Mumbai Airport cautioned travelers to prepare for potential delays and consider other transport options. “In light of ongoing protests in the state, passengers travelling via #MumbaiAirport are advised to check transport availability and plan alternate arrangements in advance,” read the advisory.

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