Ola and Uber Drivers Strike Disrupts Mumbai, Commuters Face Chaos; Airport Advises Caution

Commuters across Mumbai are grappling with severe disruptions as Ola and Uber drivers continue their strike for the third consecutive day, demanding higher fares and improved working conditions, forcing many to shift to public and alternative transport systems.

Driver Strike Causes Major Disruptions in Mumbai

Ola and Uber services in Mumbai remain largely unavailable as nearly 90% of app-based taxis stayed off the roads on July 17, 2025. The strike, led by Maharashtra Gig Works Manch, aims to pressure aggregators and the state government into revising fare structures and improving employment conditions. 

Many passengers, especially those arriving or departing from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, are facing long wait times or no availability, with airport authorities issuing travel advisories urging travellers to plan accordingly.

Key Demands Behind the Ongoing Protest

Drivers are seeking fare parity where air-conditioned cabs earn ₹32/km, a ban on bike taxis via aggregator apps, a cap on autorickshaw and black-yellow taxi permits, and the creation of a welfare board. They are also advocating for legislation titled ‘Maharashtra Gig Workers' Act’, following examples set by other states. Currently, many drivers allege earnings as low as ₹8/km after aggregator commission cuts.

Impact on Public Transport and Commuters

With app-based cab services unavailable, commuters are increasingly relying on public transportation. The BEST bus network, local suburban trains, and autorickshaws have seen higher footfall than usual. Many travellers are walking long distances to reach alternative routes or metro stations amid Mumbai’s monsoon weather conditions.

Read More: Ola Electric Penalised for Warranty Violation, Ordered to Pay ₹20,000 Compensation!

Discussions Held, But Resolution Remains Uncertain

Earlier dialogues between gig workers’ representatives and Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik failed to yield a concrete resolution, prompting the continuation of the strike. Organisers have warned that protests will escalate without tangible policy commitments or fare adjustments from either the government or aggregator platforms.

Conclusion

The ongoing Ola and Uber strike has caused significant delays and commuter inconvenience, highlighting underlying issues in the urban gig economy. With no confirmation of negotiations progressing, Mumbai residents continue facing difficulties commuting across the city.

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