Ola, Uber Services Hit for Third Straight Day in Mumbai; Drivers Demand Fare Hike and Better Work Conditions

Mumbai, 17th July 2025: App-based cab services across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region remained severely affected for the third consecutive day on Thursday, as thousands of Ola and Uber drivers extended their strike demanding fare revisions, regulatory reforms, and improved working conditions.

Kiran Kshirsagar, president of the Maharashtra Gig Works Manch, told PTI that nearly 90% of app-based taxis stayed off the roads on Wednesday. The group has accused aggregator platforms of underpaying drivers while collecting excessive commissions. “Drivers are earning as little as ₹8 per kilometre, while the platforms pocket a significant share of the fare,” Kshirsagar claimed.

The ongoing strike has led to major disruptions in travel, especially for passengers commuting to and from Mumbai Airport. With a sharp decline in cab availability, several travelers reported long wait times and surge pricing. In response, the Mumbai airport authority issued an advisory on X (formerly Twitter), urging flyers to plan ahead and consider alternate transport options.

Earlier this week, representatives from the Maharashtra Gig Works Manch held a meeting with State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik. However, the union said the lack of a concrete assurance from the government compelled them to continue the agitation.

Key Demands by Striking Drivers:

– Fare parity with Mumbai’s traditional black-and-yellow taxis at ₹32/km for AC cabs

– Ban on bike taxis operating via aggregator apps

– Caps on permits issued to black-and-yellow taxis and auto-rickshaws

– Creation of a welfare board for gig-based transport workers

– Enactment of a ‘Maharashtra Gig Workers’ Act’, drawing inspiration from similar frameworks in other Indian states

The strike, which shows no signs of de-escalation, has reignited the debate over fair compensation and rights for gig economy workers.