App-based taxi drivers operating across Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula have launched a significant protest, halting services daily between 10 AM and 4 PM. The strike, involving drivers from platforms like Ola, Uber, and InDrive, is scheduled to continue until June 16, 2026, causing considerable disruption for an estimated 50,000 daily commuters in the Tricity region.
Why the Drivers Are Striking
At the heart of the drivers' agitation is the alleged failure of the Chandigarh Administration to implement the Aggregator Policy 2025. This policy, designed to regulate app-based taxi services, address passenger safety, standardize fare structures, and ensure driver welfare, was reportedly notified nearly a year ago but remains unenforced. Union representatives, as cited by The Tribune, argue that this delay allows aggregator companies to operate without proper oversight, negatively impacting driver earnings and working conditions.
Multiple rounds of negotiations between driver unions and Chandigarh Administration officials have reportedly failed to yield any concrete results, pushing drivers to resort to this prolonged protest. Union leaders have warned that the strike will persist until the policy is fully implemented.
Key Demands of the Cab Unions
Fare Revision
A primary demand from the protesting drivers is a revision of the current fare structure. While the base fare stands at Rs 25 per kilometre, unions contend that escalating operational expenses have made this rate unsustainable. Drivers point to rising costs for CNG and other fuels, increased insurance premiums, vehicle loan repayments, servicing charges, toll fees, and permit expenses. They are advocating for an increase in the base fare to Rs 35 per kilometre, highlighting that drivers often incur uncompensated travel time when picking up passengers, further eroding their income.
Commission Reductions and Working Conditions
Another significant grievance involves the high commissions charged by aggregator platforms. Drivers allege that companies deduct between 30 to 40 per cent of their earnings through various commissions, software fees, and other charges. Furthermore, they claim that incentive-linked targets compel many drivers to work excessively long hours, often 14-16 hours a day, raising serious health concerns and increasing the risk of road accidents.
Unfair Competition
The unions are also demanding action against the commercial operation of private vehicles and unauthorized bike taxi services. Registered commercial operators bear the costs of permits and taxes, while some private vehicles allegedly operate commercially without similar obligations, creating what the drivers describe as unfair competition within the market.
Commuter Impact and Alternatives
The partial disruption of app-based cab services has forced many commuters to seek alternative transportation options. The Chandigarh Transport Undertaking (CTU) buses, which serve approximately 65-70 local and suburban routes connecting key destinations such like PGIMER, GMCH-32, Chandigarh Railway Station, ISBT-17, and ISBT-43, have seen an increase in ridership. Auto-rickshaws are also serving as a vital alternative for daily travelers affected by the ongoing strike.