Ola, Uber drivers’ strike continues in Mumbai: What is happening and what are the key demands?

App-based cab services remained largely unavailable across Mumbai for the third straight day as Ola, Uber and Rapido drivers intensified their indefinite strike over earnings, platform commission charges, and regulatory delays.

Also Read: Commuters flag lack of transparency in auto, cab fares on aggregator apps 

Mumbai continued to experience widespread transport disruptions on Thursday, as hundreds of drivers stayed off the roads, pressing for fairer per-kilometre rates, reduced aggregator commissions, and the implementation of regulatory reforms. Organised under the Maharashtra Rajya Rashtriya Kamgar Sangh and the Indian Gig Workers Front, drivers say the strike will not be called off until the state government offers formal assurance on their demands.

What is happening in Mumbai and why are drivers on strike?

The strike began on July 15 and has affected central locations including the airport, Bandra-Kurla Complex, Andheri, and South Mumbai. Drivers are protesting against low per-kilometre earnings, high aggregator commissions, and a lack of government regulation. They claim that their take-home income is unsustainable, often as low as ₹8–12/km after deductions.

What are the drivers demanding from the government and platforms?

The primary demands include fare parity with traditional taxis (₹18/km), a cap on commissions charged by aggregators, and the immediate enforcement of the Maharashtra Aggregator Policy. Drivers are also urging the government to implement the Gig and Platform Workers Welfare Act and ban bike taxi services to control oversupply and safety issues.

Union leaders have held initial discussions with officials from the Maharashtra transport department, but no formal assurances have been provided so far. According to union representatives, the strike will continue until written commitments are made regarding driver welfare, pricing structure, and platform accountability.