From Hyderabad to Delhi: drivers unite in nationwide protest against platforms

App-based taxi and autorickshaw drivers across India staged a day-long nationwide strike on Saturday, February 7, 2026, leaving services on platforms such as Ola, Uber, Rapido and Porter significantly disrupted in major cities. The action, called the “All‑India Breakdown,” saw drivers logging off apps or cancelling bookings for around six hours during peak travel, particularly affecting Hyderabad, Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Pune and Nagpur, as drivers protested unfair pricing, weak regulation and exploitation by aggregator companies.

In Hyderabad , the strike was most visible at central pickup zones. Drivers refused app-based rides between early morning and noon, causing cancellations and leaving commuters struggling to book cabs in areas such as Madhapur, Gachibowli, Banjara Hills and Hi‑Tech City. Airport travellers faced unreliable service at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport , often paying higher fares when negotiating directly with drivers. Drivers said the strike was necessary to highlight declining earnings, rising operational costs and arbitrary fare policies .

The strike was organised by the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU), backed by national labour organisations. In a statement, the union said, “No minimum fares. No regulation. Endless exploitation. Govt must act now. Millions of app-based drivers are pushed into poverty while aggregators profit. Govt silence = platform impunity.” Despite the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025 , platforms continue to set fares unilaterally , creating income instability and unsustainable working conditions.

In Delhi , drivers gathered at Jantar Mantar, demanding a ban on private bike taxis, a national body for driver welfare, and fair sharing of surge pricing. They urged governments to implement minimum base fares and ensure gig workers are protected from exploitation.

Drivers also opposed the use of private vehicles for commercial rides, which undercuts licensed drivers, and raised concerns about the rising number of autorickshaws under open permits, the financial burden of mandatory panic button installations , and lack of insurance coverage for accidents involving illegal bike taxis .