Mumbai Hit by Statewide Cab and Auto Strike; Transport Services Severely Disrupted

70–80% cabs and autos stayed off roads across Maharashtra as drivers protested against app-based fare policies and bike taxi services, causing fare surge and commuter chaos in Mumbai and other cities.

A one-day statewide strike called by cab and auto-rickshaw drivers on Friday caused major disruption in passenger transport services across Maharashtra. The protest saw large participation from drivers in cities including Mumbai, Pune, Thane, Navi Mumbai, Nagpur, Nashik, Aurangabad, Kolhapur, Satara and Solapur, as well as several rural areas.

According to reports, nearly 70 to 80 per cent of cabs and auto-rickshaws remained off the roads. This led to long waiting times, traffic issues and a severe shortage of vehicles. Ride-hailing apps showed large red zones in many locations, indicating very limited availability of cabs.

Due to the shortage, the few vehicles that were operating charged fares three to four times higher than normal rates. Many commuters faced inconvenience and had to pay significantly higher prices for travel.

Drivers’ representatives claimed the sharp rise in fares proved the success of the strike. They said the situation showed that app-based companies cannot function without drivers and that passengers are often forced to pay high and unfair prices when vehicle availability drops.

The protest was organised against what drivers called unfair government policies and the functioning of app-based companies such as Ola, Uber and Rapido. Drivers’ unions alleged that these platforms violate transport department rules related to fare structures, commission limits, licensing, insurance and passenger safety norms.

According to the unions, drivers are facing financial pressure due to high commissions and falling earnings, while passengers are being charged arbitrary fares. They also criticised the government for not taking strict action against such practices.

A key demand of the protest was opposition to bike taxi services. Drivers argued that bike taxis are being allowed without proper legal guidelines, safety measures or insurance protection. They said this poses safety risks and threatens the livelihood of traditional cab and auto drivers. The unions demanded that bike taxi services should not be permitted until clear and strict rules are introduced.

Although the strike lasted only one day, organisers described it as a strong message to the government. They urged authorities to take immediate steps regarding commission rates, fare regulation, income protection for drivers and proper enforcement of transport laws.

Drivers’ unions have warned that if their demands are not addressed, they will intensify their protests in the coming days.