Cabs Hit Pause: App-Drivers Press ‘Break’ on Strike for a Quick Three-Day Pit Stop!

Key highlights

 

App-based cab services in Maharashtra—including Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur—are back on the road after drivers’ unions agreed to a three-day suspension of their strike. The protest, driven by demands for fare parity, welfare measures, and regulatory changes, highlighted long-standing tensions between aggregator platforms, drivers, and the state government.

 

Why the Strike Was Suspended

 

The Maharashtra Gig Kamgar Manch and other unions temporarily paused the strike until July 22, following a series of meetings with state transport officials. Key officials requested time to respond to cab drivers’ demands and invited union representatives for further talks on the deadline day.

 

The suspension is not a withdrawal: unions have made it clear services may be shut down again if negotiations stall or demands are unmet after Tuesday.

 

The ongoing hunger strike by union leadership continues as a symbol of protest, keeping pressure on policymakers.

 

Core Demands from Drivers

 

Rationalisation of fares so that app-based cabs charge at par with traditional metered taxis, ending practices where drivers’ earnings are reduced by aggregator discounts.

 

Ban on bike taxi services and a cap on new permits for cabs and autos, aimed at reducing market saturation and ensuring driver livelihoods.

 

Creation of a welfare board and adoption of the Maharashtra Gig Workers’ Act for broader social and financial protections.

 

Prompt resolution for family support in cases of driver distress, highlighted by the recent death of a driver unable to repay a vehicle loan.

 

Temporary Fare Policy and Commuter Experience

 

During the suspension, rides should be billed according to government-approved standard taxi rates rather than fluctuating app-generated fares. Commuters and drivers are encouraged to use fare calculator websites to prevent overcharging.

 

Reports from the week show passengers faced increased wait times, higher fares, and occasional conflicts—underscoring the strain on both users and drivers during the protest.

 

What’s Next

 

The government has promised action, including enforcement against unauthorized bike taxis and review of aggregator company practices.

 

Leaders warn that if meaningful solutions are not presented by July 22, a renewed and possibly larger strike could follow, with broader union participation.

 

Sources: Economic Times, NewsBytes, Mid-Day