Mumbai App Based Taxi And Rickshaw Drivers Call Off Strike, Set Temporary Fare At ₹32 per Km
Mumbai App Based Taxi And Rickshaw Drivers Call Off Strike, Set Temporary Fare At ₹32 per Km
Mumbai, July 20, 2025: After a four-day strike, app-based taxi and rickshaw drivers in Mumbai have decided to call off their agitation as the impact on their families grew severe. The drivers, who were demanding implementation of Regional Transport Office (RTO)-approved fares for all app-based services, have announced they will now charge passengers ₹32 per kilometre as an interim measure.
While the RTO is yet to approve their primary demand to enforce uniform fares across services like Ola and Uber, drivers’ unions have warned that if a positive decision isn’t made by Tuesday, they may resume the strike from Wednesday.
The strike, which began with protests and an indefinite hunger strike at Azad Maidan, received mixed responses. Tragically, a driver from Nalasopara reportedly died by suicide due to financial distress during this period, which intensified the protestors’ resolve.
On Friday, a meeting was held between drivers’ representatives, union leaders, and senior RTO officials to discuss the fare issues. The drivers argued that fluctuating app-based rates make it impossible for them to meet daily expenses. The RTO has sought time until Tuesday to consider their demands.
In the meantime, drivers will use the “Only Meter” website to calculate fares, rather than relying on app-generated rates. Passengers booking rides through apps like Ola or Uber will be charged according to the ₹32/km rate shown on “Only Meter” instead of the lower app rates.
However, there is a possibility of disputes between drivers and passengers if app fares appear lower. Maharashtra Kamgar Sabha President Dr. Keshav Kshirsagar said, “Though there might be initial inconvenience, this system has worked well in Pune. We believe it will benefit both drivers and passengers in Mumbai too.”
The union has warned that if the RTO fails to meet their demands by Tuesday, drivers across Mumbai will once again go on strike.
