Drivers working with ride-hailing platforms such as Ola, Uber and Rapido have called for a nationwide service halt on Saturday, describing the protest as an “All India Breakdown.” As part of the action, workers plan to stay offline for six hours, potentially disrupting transport services in multiple cities.

The strike has been organized by the Telangana Gig and Platform Workers Union (TGPWU), which represents thousands of app-based transport workers. In a public announcement, the union stated that drivers across the country would temporarily stop accepting rides to protest what they consider exploitative pricing policies and inadequate oversight of aggregator companies.

According to the union, ride-hailing platforms continue to set fares independently despite the existence of Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025. Worker representatives argue that the absence of government-mandated minimum fares has resulted in shrinking incomes and unstable earnings.

The group has also raised concerns over the increasing use of private vehicles for commercial ride services, claiming it creates unfair competition for licensed drivers who rely on app-based work for survival.

In social media statements, the union accused aggregator platforms of profiting while pushing drivers into financial hardship, and criticized authorities for failing to intervene. The protest, they said, is aimed at forcing policymakers to initiate meaningful dialogue and introduce enforceable fare regulations.

The union’s key demands include the official notification of minimum base fares for cabs, autos and bike taxis, finalized in consultation with worker unions, as well as a ban on private, non-commercial vehicles being used for paid passenger and delivery services.

The announcement follows earlier protests by gig workers in delivery and quick-commerce sectors, who have also raised concerns over low pay, long hours and job insecurity.

Meanwhile, India’s Economic Survey 2025–26 has highlighted income volatility among gig workers, noting that a significant portion earns under Rs 15,000 per month despite rapid growth in the sector. The report also called for improved transparency in platform algorithms and stronger protections for digital workers.

With thousands of drivers expected to log off simultaneously, ride availability may be affected in major cities on February 7, marking another major moment in India’s growing gig worker movement.