Thousands of drivers linked to Uber, Ola, Rapido and similar ride-hailing platforms are set to log off nationwide on February 7 (Saturday), raising the risk of major travel disruption. The planned six-hour shutdown, branded the ‘All India Breakdown’, is aimed at pushing the government to act on fare regulation, working conditions and enforcement of sector rules. Commuters in major cities may struggle to find cabs, autos and bike taxis, particularly during peak hours.

Nationwide strike likely to hit app-based travel

The strike has been called by the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) with backing from several national labour organisations. It targets drivers working across platforms including Ola, Uber, Rapido and Porter.

Unions say thousands of drivers are expected to go offline for at least six hours, although the level of disruption could differ from city to city depending on participation. Because the protest falls on a weekend, both morning and evening travel plans may be affected.

Passengers who depend on app-based transport services are being advised to prepare alternative arrangements as availability of cabs, auto-rickshaws and bike taxis could drop sharply.

Why drivers are protesting

The unions say long-standing issues remain unresolved in India’s fast-growing ride-hailing sector. They argue that platforms still set fares without government-regulated structures, leading to income insecurity, exploitation and difficult working conditions.

In a letter to Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, the TGPWU said millions of drivers are facing falling earnings while aggregator companies continue to profit. The union also pointed to the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025, saying they require regulatory oversight, fare transparency and protection of driver livelihoods but are not fully enforced.

Government data has also highlighted concerns. The Economic Survey 2025-26 noted rapid growth in gig work but said many workers still face unstable incomes, with about 40% earning below ₹15,000 per month. The number of gig workers has risen to 1.2 crore in FY25 from 77 lakh in FY21, now making up more than 2% of India’s workforce.

Key demands and wider concerns

Driver unions want minimum base fares to be officially notified by central and state governments after consultation with recognised unions. They are also seeking strict action against the commercial use of private vehicles unless converted to commercial registration.

Another demand is removal of a guideline clause allowing fares to drop up to 50% below base levels, which unions say harms driver income. They also want stronger legal safeguards for earnings and working conditions.

The February 7 strike follows earlier protests by gig workers, including food delivery and quick-commerce riders who demonstrated in December 2025 over low payouts and tough working conditions.