Maharashtra’s App Based Cab and Auto Drivers Hold Day-Long Protest Seeking Fare Increase

On October 9, 2025, major cities across Maharashtra, including Mumbai, Pune and Nashik, witnessed a day-long strike by app-based taxi and auto drivers. The strike, led by Maharashtra Gig Kamgar Manch, demanded fare hikes, strict regulations on bike taxis, and labour protections for gig workers.

Key Demands Triggering the Transport Strike

The striking drivers are pressing for fare rationalisation aligned with the black-and-yellow taxi rates, currently set by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Transport Authority. Non-AC taxi fare is ₹20.66 per km, and AC fare stands at ₹22.72 per km. Also, demands include a cap on permits for black-and-yellow taxis and auto rickshaws, and a complete ban on bike taxi services. 

They also seek the formation of a welfare board for gig drivers and regulatory recognition through a new law protecting gig workers.

Widespread Participation and Transport Disruption

The strike led to vast numbers of app-based taxis and autos remaining off-road in metropolitan areas. The Mumbai airport taxi bay, generally packed, stood deserted during the afternoon. Despite the union’s claim of high participation, some passengers reported no disruptions in booking rides via apps like Ola, Uber and Rapido. 

The strike followed a failed attempt to meet Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik and a protest gathering at Azad Maidan, Mumbai, last week.

Read More: Uber and Indian Railways Collaborate to Streamline Travel at Ahmedabad and Howrah Stations!

Regulatory Directive Ignored by Aggregators

Assistant Transport Commissioner Bharat Kalaskar earlier directed Ola, Uber and Rapido to implement black-and-yellow fare slabs effective from September 18, 2025, until new pricing develops. As per MMRTA policy, aggregators can offer 25% discounts in lean periods and hike fares up to 1.5 times during high demand. 

However, protesting unions allege that these instructions have been ignored by the aggregators, worsening fare-related concerns for gig workers dependent on fair pricing.

Conclusion

The strike highlighted festering issues in the app-based mobility sector, especially around fare rationalisation, licensing and protections for gig workers. Until a constructive dialogue is established and reforms take place, further disruption remains a possibility in Maharashtra’s urban mobility landscape.

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