Commuters in Mumbai are facing significant disruptions as Ola and Uber drivers continue their strike, demanding fare revisions and improved working conditions.
App-Based Cabs Off Roads for Third Day
For the third consecutive day, app-based cab services like Ola and Uber have been severely impacted across the Mumbai metropolitan region. Drivers have intensified their protest, causing widespread inconvenience for daily commuters.
According to Kiran Kshirsagar, President of the Maharashtra Gig Works Manch, nearly 90 percent of app-based cabs were off the roads on Wednesday alone. This strong show of solidarity aims to pressure aggregators and the government for better terms.
The group previously met with Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik. However, the lack of a firm commitment has led drivers to continue their agitation, impacting thousands of passengers.
Mumbai Airport Issues Travel Advisory
The ongoing strike has particularly hit passengers traveling to and from Mumbai Airport, resulting in long waits and limited cab availability. Many faced significant delays in reaching their destinations.
Recognizing the severity of the situation, the Mumbai airport authority released a travel advisory. They urged passengers to make alternative transport arrangements and plan their journeys well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
Drivers’ Core Demands
The Maharashtra Gig Works Manch has outlined several key demands that form the core of their protest. Drivers are seeking a more equitable system that addresses their financial concerns and provides better social security.
- Fare parity with traditional ‘Black & Yellow’ taxis, aiming for Rs 32 per kilometer for AC cabs.
- A complete ban on bike taxis operating through aggregator applications, citing unfair competition.
- Introduction of permit caps for both black-and-yellow taxis and auto-rickshaws to regulate the market.
- Establishment of a dedicated welfare board for gig-based transport workers to address their grievances and provide support.
- Implementation of a ‘Maharashtra Gig Workers’ Act,’ modeled on policies adopted in other states, to ensure better rights and working conditions.
Kshirsagar highlighted the financial strain on drivers, stating that aggregators charge hefty commissions while drivers often receive as little as Rs 8 per kilometer for their services.
Commuters Find Alternative Transport
With online cab bookings failing or showing extended wait times, Mumbai commuters have been forced to seek other options. Many have switched to municipal buses operated by BEST, while others relied on autorickshaws.
For longer distances, a significant number of people opted to walk to nearby railway and metro stations, enduring extra effort to complete their daily commutes. The strike underscores the city’s reliance on app-based services and the ripple effect when they are disrupted.
