Uber, Ola, Rapido Services May Be Hit as Drivers Plan Feb 7 Protest
Uber, Ola, Rapido Drivers to Go on Nationwide Strike on February 7 Over Fare Policies: Drivers associated with major ride-hailing platforms such as Uber, Ola, and Rapido have announced a nationwide strike on February 7, protesting against fare policies, rising operational costs, and what they describe as continued government negligence.
The Telangana App-Based Drivers Forum (TADF) confirmed the planned protest, calling it an “all-India breakdown.” The forum said the strike aims to draw attention to the growing financial stress, unstable income, and deteriorating working conditions faced by app-based drivers across the country.
According to TADF, even after the notification of the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025, ride-hailing platforms continue to fix fares without transparency. The organisation alleges that arbitrary fare structures are pushing drivers into income instability, debt, and insecure employment.
The forum further claimed that passengers are also affected due to surge pricing practices and the absence of effective regulatory oversight. TADF argued that weak enforcement allows aggregator platforms to function without adequate accountability.
Feb 7 Strike: Cab Drivers Protest Rising Costs and Low Earnings
A major demand raised by the drivers’ union is the immediate notification of a minimum base fare by both central and state governments. The union alleges that in the absence of such a policy, companies are increasing commission charges, significantly reducing drivers’ take-home earnings.
Drivers also pointed out that rising fuel prices, vehicle maintenance costs, insurance premiums, and operational risks are being fully passed on to them, making it increasingly difficult to earn a dignified livelihood.
Another key demand includes a ban on the use of private, non-commercial vehicles for app-based commercial rides, which drivers say creates unfair competition.
The February 7 strike follows earlier protests by gig and platform workers on Christmas Day (December 25) and New Year’s Eve (December 31) last year—both peak service periods—during which workers highlighted issues related to poor working conditions and unsustainable pay structures.
ALSO READ: Hair Washing During Periods
