Transport Strike – Delhi-NCR Commuters Brace for Three-Day Travel Disruptions
Transport Strike – Residents across Delhi and the National Capital Region are likely to experience travel difficulties over the next three days as unions representing commercial vehicle operators have launched a large-scale strike demanding revised fare structures and stricter regulation of app-based transport companies. The protest, which began on Thursday, includes participation from taxi drivers, auto-rickshaw operators and other commercial transport workers.
Protest Linked to Nationwide Transport Agitation
The strike is scheduled to continue until May 23 and has been organised in support of a countrywide movement announced by the All India Motor Transport Congress. Transport services in Delhi, Noida, Gurugram and nearby cities are expected to remain affected, with fewer taxis, autos and other public transport vehicles available during peak travel hours.
Commuters may face longer waiting times and increased dependence on alternative travel options as many drivers stay off the roads to support the protest.
Drivers Raise Concerns Over Falling Earnings
Commercial drivers participating in the agitation have pointed to rising operational expenses and declining income as the main reasons behind the strike. Many drivers alleged that app-based ride platforms have significantly reduced per-kilometre payouts over the past few months, making it increasingly difficult to cover daily expenses.
Taxi operator Narendra Tiwari said drivers are struggling to maintain stable earnings due to reduced fare rates offered by ride-hailing companies. According to him, payouts that were previously around ₹30 per kilometre during a limited promotional period have now reportedly dropped to nearly half that amount.
Several drivers also claimed that the number of ride requests has decreased, adding to their financial pressure amid increasing fuel prices and maintenance expenses.
Demand for Immediate Fare Revision
Another driver, Dinesh Kumar, urged authorities to reconsider fare structures that, according to transport unions, have not been revised in Delhi-NCR for nearly 15 years. Drivers say the current pricing system no longer reflects the actual cost of operating commercial vehicles in the region.
The Chalak Shakti Union recently submitted a memorandum to senior Delhi government officials, including the Lieutenant Governor, Chief Minister and Transport Minister, requesting immediate intervention on the issue.
The association stated that rising costs related to compressed natural gas, petrol, diesel, insurance, permits, fitness certifications and vehicle servicing have placed an unsustainable burden on drivers.
App-Based Cab Services Under Scrutiny
Apart from fare-related demands, unions have also accused ride-hailing platforms of operating without adequate oversight. According to driver groups, companies such as Ola, Uber and Rapido have adopted pricing systems that leave drivers with shrinking earnings despite increasing passenger demand in urban areas.
The unions allege that commercial drivers are facing economic hardship because of policies implemented by these digital transport platforms. They have called for discussions with government authorities to establish regulations aimed at protecting driver income and ensuring fair business practices.
Driver representatives have warned that if their concerns remain unresolved, the ongoing protest could expand into a larger agitation in the coming weeks.
Rising Fuel Prices Add to Pressure
The strike comes at a time when fuel prices have increased again across several parts of the country, adding to operating costs for commercial vehicle owners. In Delhi, petrol prices have reportedly risen by 87 paise per litre, while diesel rates have increased by 91 paise per litre.
Transport operators say these price hikes are making daily operations more expensive, particularly for drivers already coping with stagnant fares and reduced ride availability.
Commuters Advised to Plan Ahead
With transport services expected to remain partially disrupted until May 23, commuters in Delhi-NCR may need to make advance travel arrangements. Authorities are monitoring the situation as discussions between unions and government representatives are expected in the coming days.