Country-wide strike by drivers of cab service providers like ‘Ola’, ‘Uber’, and ‘Rapido’

New Delhi – On Saturday, 7 February, drivers of app-based transport services such as Ola, Uber and Rapido have announced a nationwide strike. The drivers have named the agitation ‘All India Breakdown’ and will keep their apps switched off. As a result, commuters may face major difficulties in accessing taxis, rickshaws, autos and two-wheelers. The strike has been jointly called by the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) along with other unions.

According to the drivers, there are no fixed fare rates, no clear regulations, and they are facing exploitation. The union has written to Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, placing their grievances before him. As the government has not fixed fare rates, the companies make arbitrary deductions, making it difficult for drivers to manage household expenses and creating uncertainty about their income.

The country’s first cooperative-based cab service, ‘Bharat Taxi’,

was inaugurated at a grand event held at Vigyan Bhavan in Delhi. Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah officially launched ‘Bharat Taxi’. The service will operate on a zero-commission model, ensuring that drivers receive their full earnings directly into their bank accounts. To promote women empowerment, the ‘Sarathi Didi’ initiative has also been launched. Under this initiative, more than 150 women drivers have so far been associated with ‘Bharat Taxi’.