Commuters across Mumbai face long waits and limited transport options as app-based cab and bike drivers halt services, demanding fair pay and government regulation.
đźš– Mumbai Hit by Massive Cab Strike: What’s Happening?
Starting July 15, drivers associated with popular ride-hailing platforms Ola, Uber, and Rapido initiated an indefinite strike in Mumbai. The protest has caused widespread disruption in daily commuting, especially in high-demand areas such as the airport zone, Bandra-Kurla Complex, Andheri, and South Mumbai.
Thousands of passengers are now struggling with:
- Long waiting times
- Surge pricing
- Scarcity of cabs and bike taxis
🔥 Why Are Drivers Protesting?
At the heart of the agitation is growing frustration over declining earnings and lack of government oversight. Drivers argue that after accounting for:
- Platform commissions
- Fuel prices
- Maintenance expenses
…they are often left with as little as ₹8 to ₹12 per kilometre, making it nearly impossible to sustain a livelihood.
đź“ť Key Demands From Drivers
The protest is being led by unions including:
- Maharashtra Gig Kamgar Manch
- Maharashtra Rajya Rashtriya Kamgar Sangh
- Indian Gig Workers Front
Their core demands include:
- Bringing app-based cab fares in line with black-and-yellow taxis
- A ban on bike taxis
- Placing a cap on new kaali-peeli and auto rickshaw permits
- Establishing a Welfare Board for gig workers
- Passing the Maharashtra Gig Workers’ Act to formalize and protect driver rights
- Ensuring platforms bear the cost of discounts, rather than cutting driver income
🏛️ Where Does the Government Stand?
While the Maharashtra government announced plans for a regulatory policy for aggregators over a year ago, the framework is still awaiting approval.
The proposed draft includes:
- Fare regulation
- Licensing rules
- Enforcement guidelines
However, in its absence, disputes between drivers and companies remain unresolved.
🧳 Impact on Passengers & Airport Advisory
The strike has hit airport passengers particularly hard, with many missing flights or facing delays.
Mumbai International Airport released a travel alert urging people to:
- Check transport availability in advance
- Arrange alternate travel 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 a post on X (formerly Twitter).
⏳ What’s Next?
As of July 18, transport officials have requested striking drivers to wait until July 22 for a formal meeting to address grievances. Meanwhile, the strike continues to disrupt travel across Mumbai.
