Ola, Uber, Rapido Strike On 7 February: Drivers Announce ‘All-India Breakdown’ Over Fare Exploitation

Drivers associated with major ride-hailing platforms such as Uber, Ola and Rapido are set to participate in a nationwide strike on February 7, highlighting growing dissatisfaction over fare policies and what they describe as continued government inaction.

The Telangana App-Based Drivers Forum (TADF) confirmed the planned "All-India Breakdown" on Tuesday, February 3, stating that the protest aims to draw attention to mounting financial pressures and unstable working conditions faced by drivers.

Drivers Allege Fare Exploitation Despite Guidelines

According to TADF, even after the notification of the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025, aggregator platforms are still determining fares without transparency. The forum argues that such practices are pushing drivers towards income instability, debt and unsustainable employment conditions.

The organisation also claimed that commuters are affected by surge pricing tactics and insufficient regulatory supervision, adding that the absence of strong oversight allows platforms to operate without adequate accountability.

Demand for Minimum Base Fare and Policy Changes

The union criticised both central and state governments for not notifying minimum base fares. It believes this gap enables companies to reduce driver earnings while raising commission charges.

TADF further stated that increasing fuel prices, vehicle upkeep, insurance expenses and operational risks are being passed entirely onto drivers. This, it said, is making dignified livelihoods increasingly unattainable.

Among the key demands are the immediate announcement of minimum base fares and a ban on the use of private, non-commercial vehicles for app-based commercial rides.

Previous Protests Highlight Ongoing Concerns

The February strike follows earlier protests by gig and platform workers on Christmas (December 25) and New Year's Eve (December 31) last year, both peak periods for delivery services. Workers had then raised concerns about deteriorating work environments and compensation structures.

They called for fair pay supported by transparent wage systems and incentives that reflect actual working hours and expenses. Additional demands included ending arbitrary ID blocks and penalties without due process, strengthening safety provisions such as safety gear and accident insurance, and ensuring equitable work allocation without algorithmic bias.

Workers also sought respectful treatment from platforms and customers, along with long-term protections such as job security, health insurance, accident coverage and pension benefits.