Ola, Uber, Rapido drivers on strike today

App-based transport services across India are set to come to a standstill on Saturday as drivers affiliated with major platforms including Ola, Uber, Rapido, Porter, UNCL and Mover prepare for a coordinated strike.  This nationwide shutdown is being organized by app-based drivers’ unions to protest what they describe as persistently low and arbitrary fares, rising commissions, and the absence of enforceable government regulation. 

Telangana Gig and Platform Workers’ Union (TGPWU) and the Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers (IFAT), along with unions such as BRTU, AIPC, ILWF, TRCPTU, INTUC and AITUC are participating.

The  demands include the immediate notification of minimum base fares for all categories of app-based transport like autos, cabs and bike taxis.  A  ban on the use of private (non-commercial) vehicles for commercial app-based services, or mandatory conversion of such vehicles into the commercial category, in line with existing Motor Vehicles laws.