All-India taxi strike hits Delhi as unions demand higher base fares
Gig workers across India stage a nationwide strike, pressing for a minimum base fare and urgent govt action amid rising commissions and income insecurity.
Delhi woke up to a nationwide stir in the app-based taxi world as unions led a coordinated strike demanding a minimum base fare and urgent government action. The All-India Breakdown call is aimed at pressing for long-pending issues flagged by gig workers who say rising commissions and shrinking earnings have squeezed livelihoods. Major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad are expected to feel the disruption as riders turn to alternative options and commuters brace for potential shortages.
Unions say the current model leaves drivers with income insecurity, pointing to a 50% commission policy that, they argue, has halved take-home pay in many cases. They want regulatory safeguards, a clear floor on base fares, and a ban on bike taxis that they say undercut traditional car-hailing services. They also cite the mandatory panic button as a financial burden rather than a safety feature.
The labour group has written to Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, urging the government to act on these demands rather than letting protests drag on. They insist the stoppage is about protecting livelihoods and ensuring fair competition in the ride-hailing sector. The strike plan has drawn participation from gig workers across multiple states, including Telangana, and is designed to be sustainable until policy concerns are addressed.
In response, state authorities have signaled they want to keep passengers moving as much as possible, with ministers urging operators to avoid unnecessary delays for commuters. Still, the mood among drivers remains firm as they seek a framework that guarantees better earnings and predictable costs for riders alike.
The protest is likely to reshape daily commutes in the coming days, with riders weighing options such as public transit or traditional taxis as negotiations continue. Supporters say the strike is a necessary push for reform, while critics worry about the inconvenience for travelers who rely on app-based services for their day-to-day travel.
