Mumbai’s public transport system is facing unprecedented disruption as Ola and Uber drivers continue their mass strike for a third consecutive day, paralysing app-based cab services across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Beginning on July 15, the agitation has escalated with thousands of drivers uniting at Azad Maidan and spreading their grievance citywide.
Core demands include better pay, fair commissions, clearer regulations, and protection from what they describe as exploitative practices by ride-hailing platforms and unregulated bike taxis. With up to 90% of app-based cabs off the roads, commuters are struggling to find affordable rides. Despite ongoing talks among driver unions, platform representatives, and state authorities, no breakthrough has been achieved, keeping Mumbai’s daily travellers in limbo.
Strike Gathers Steam: Drivers Unite for Fairness
Union leaders estimate that nearly 18,000 to 20,000 drivers are participating in the protest, which has left over half a million daily users stranded. Many drivers say they are currently earning as little as Rs 8–9 per kilometre, sometimes far less after deductions, making it impossible to keep up with soaring fuel, maintenance, and EMI repayments.
Key protest demands include: raising the minimum fare to match regular taxi rates, reducing the commission charged by companies, implementing stricter welfare measures, banning unregulated bike taxis, and bringing in a transparent Aggregator Policy.
Some striking drivers have reportedly stopped working cabs mid-journey, urging colleagues to join the strike, further inconveniencing passengers. Airport officials have issued advisories to travellers as ride availability shrinks, while some consumers report surge pricing or being stranded for hours.
From Missed Promises to Widespread Agitation
The current protest is the latest chapter in a long history of unrest among Mumbai’s app-based drivers, who claim their concerns have often gone unaddressed by both companies and the Maharashtra government. Previous strikes and petitions for fairer policies have achieved little change, fueling this intensified response.
Now, the strike has expanded to neighbouring cities like Pune and Nagpur and drawn support from food delivery and auto driver unions, signalling a broader gig economy mobilisation. On July 16, Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik met with union representatives, acknowledging their demands as “reasonable” and promising government action within 15 days.
However, drivers remain sceptical, determined to continue their protest until tangible reforms are implemented. Authorities have urged all sides to maintain dialogue and avoid actions that threaten public safety.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This ongoing agitation sheds light on the deep challenges facing India’s gig economy, where digital innovation often outpaces labour rights and social protections. While passengers are justly frustrated by rising fares and fewer travel options, the drivers’ plea for stability, dignity, and fair compensation cannot be ignored.
The Logical Indian calls for urgent, transparent negotiations between companies, policymakers, and driver unions, underpinned by empathy and a commitment to equitable urban mobility.
