Commuters across the nation will have to search alternative transport services today, February 7, as thousands of app-based cab drivers, including Ola, Uber and Rapido participating in a coordinated nationwide strike. The protest, named as ‘All India Breakdown’, is expected to severely disrupt services.
The protest will begin at 8:00 am, with drivers across the country logging off their mobile applications. Public transport alternatives, such as buses and metro services, are expected to see a significant surge in passenger numbers throughout the day.
The ‘All India Breakdown’ Movement
The strike has been organised by the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU) alongside the Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers (IFAT). Unions have used the slogan "No minimum fares, no regulation, endless exploitation" to highlight the problems of an over 8 million gig workers in the transport sector.
While the primary disruption is expected to last for a minimum of 6 hours today, transport union leaders have warned that many drivers may remain offline for the entire day. Major metropolitan hubs including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad are most affected.
Core Demands and Fare Disputes
At the heart of the protest is a demand for the central and state governments to formally notify a minimum base fare. Currently, unions argue that aggregator companies fix prices unilaterally, leading to "severe income insecurity" as fuel prices rise and company commissions increase.
Key Demands Include:
Minimum Fare Notification: The government intervention to set a transparent and mandatory base fare.
Commercial Regulation: A strict ban on private (white-plate) vehicles being used for commercial passenger and goods transport.
Also Read | Ola, Uber and Rapido Drivers to Strike on February 7; Cab, Auto and Bike Taxi Services to Be Hit.
Policy Revision: The removal of clauses in the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines 2025 that allow companies to charge fares up to 50% below the base rate.
Growing Unrest in the Gig Economy
This nationwide shutdown follows a series of protests over the past 12 months. In late 2025, delivery partners for quick-commerce apps held a similar strike during the busy New Year period. A recent Economic Survey highlighted that approximately 40% of India's gig workers earn less than Rs 15,000 per month, further fueling the drive for regulatory reform.
In a letter addressed to Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, the TGPWU stated that millions of drivers are being pushed into poverty despite the rapid growth of the digital economy.
Advice for Commuters
Travellers are urged to avoid relying on ride-hailing apps today. In instances where vehicles are available, passengers may face significantly higher "surge" pricing and extended wait times. Authorities recommend using local trains, metro networks, or state-run bus services to ensure timely arrival at destinations.