Uber, Ola Strike Disrupts Mumbai Travel; Airport Advises Flyers To Plan Ahead
Uber, Ola Strike Disrupts Mumbai Travel; Airport Advises Flyers To Plan Ahead
Mumbai, July 17, 2025: Travel to and from Mumbai Airport continues to face disruptions as Uber and Ola drivers in Maharashtra extend their strike into a third day. The airport authorities have issued an advisory urging passengers to make alternate arrangements and plan their journeys in advance to avoid inconvenience.
The advisory, shared on the airport’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle, thanked travellers for their patience and cooperation during the ongoing protest.
Why Are Uber and Ola Drivers Protesting?
The strike, which began on July 15, has brought thousands of auto-rickshaw drivers, cab operators, and gig workers from across the state to Mumbai’s Azad Maidan. They are protesting against what they describe as the transport department’s inaction over regulating app-based cab services.
At the heart of their demands is stricter oversight of companies like Uber, Ola, and Rapido. Protesters allege these platforms are operating illegally despite suspension orders on bike taxis and certain categories of vehicles. They have also criticised the surge pricing model, claiming it exploits both drivers and passengers.
While officials assert that Rapido’s bike taxi operations have been halted, users report the services are still accessible via the app, even near the state ministry headquarters.
The protesting drivers further accuse the central transport ministry of enabling platforms to charge inflated fares, which they say undermines fair practices and leaves gig workers vulnerable.
With no resolution yet in sight, commuters across Mumbai are advised to remain cautious and plan their transport well in advance.
