Ola, Uber, Rapido Drivers Observe ‘All India Breakdown’ Strike Over Fare Rules, Pay Issues

Drivers of app-based cab and transport services, including Ola, Uber, Rapido, and Porter, are observing a nationwide strike on Friday, February 7, under the banner of “All India Breakdown,” protesting what they describe as “endless exploitation” and lack of fare regulation.

The strike has been called by several drivers’ unions, including the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU), along with other labour groups. Auto, cab, bike-taxi, and goods transport drivers affiliated with aggregator platforms are participating in the protest.

In a letter to Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, one of the unions said that there is no government-regulated fare structure for app-based drivers. Instead, the companies allegedly fix fares unilaterally, leading to income instability and poor working conditions.

“This results in severe income insecurity, exploitation, and unsustainable working conditions for millions of transport workers,” the union said.

‘Endless Exploitation’

Announcing the strike on X, the TGPWU said: “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 urged the government to intervene, claiming that millions of drivers have been pushed into poverty while aggregator companies continue to earn profits.

Key Demands: 2025 Guidelines in Focus

The unions have centred their demands on the implementation of the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025.

Appointment of Regulator:
The drivers have demanded the appointment of a regulatory authority to oversee aggregator platforms, ensure fare transparency, and protect drivers’ livelihoods, as outlined in the 2025 guidelines.

Minimum Base Fares:
They have called for the immediate notification of minimum base fares by central and state governments. According to the unions, these rates should be decided in consultation with recognised driver organisations.

Ban on Private Vehicles for Commercial Use:
The unions have also sought a ban on the use of private vehicles for commercial transport, or mandatory conversion of such vehicles into commercial vehicles.

Companies Yet to Respond

As of now, companies such as Ola, Uber, Rapido, and Porter have not issued official statements on the reasons behind the strike.

Recent Labour Protests

The strike comes just weeks after app-based food and delivery workers staged a protest on December 31, 2025. That agitation was withdrawn after companies including Blinkit, Zepto, and Swiggy Instamart stopped promoting “10-minute delivery” services to reduce work pressure.

The issue had also been raised in Parliament by AAP MP Raghav Chadha, while Zomato and Blinkit founder Deepinder Goyal had defended company policies.