TransportStrike – Delhi Taxi Operators Call Protest at Jantar Mantar

Association Seeks Government Attention

In an official statement issued on Monday, the association said it is urging the government to step in and address a series of long-standing concerns affecting the commercial transport sector. According to its president, Sanjay Samrat, operators and drivers have been struggling with mounting operational and regulatory pressures.

Samrat stated that transporters not only in Delhi but also in neighbouring states — including Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan and Punjab — are experiencing similar difficulties. He noted that policy-related hurdles and enforcement measures have added to the strain on small and mid-sized operators who depend on steady business for their livelihoods.

Concerns Over Regulatory Gaps

One of the key issues raised by the association relates to the alleged operation of bike taxis using private number plates in the Delhi-NCR region. The group argues that such practices create uneven competition within the transport ecosystem and may raise safety questions for passengers.

Representatives of the association contend that licensed taxi drivers are required to comply with a range of commercial regulations and safety standards. They claim that if certain services operate outside the established framework, it can disrupt the balance within the sector and affect earnings for those adhering to formal guidelines.

The association has called for clear and consistent rules to ensure that all transport services function under the same regulatory structure. According to the statement, the absence of uniform enforcement has contributed to confusion and uncertainty in the market.

App-Based Fare Structure Under Scrutiny

Another major concern involves fare structures set by app-based ride aggregators. The association alleges that while operational costs — including fuel prices, vehicle maintenance, insurance and permit fees — have increased over time, driver earnings have not kept pace.

The group further claims that commissions charged by digital platforms have risen, even as passenger fares remain largely unchanged. As a result, drivers reportedly face shrinking margins despite higher compliance costs and day-to-day expenses.

Transport representatives are seeking greater transparency in fare calculation mechanisms and are calling for government oversight to ensure what they describe as a fair distribution of revenue between drivers and platform operators.

Rising Compliance Costs

Beyond fare regulation, the association has also flagged the issue of escalating compliance requirements. Commercial vehicle operators must meet various permit conditions, taxation norms and documentation standards, which they say have become more complex and costly in recent years.

According to the association, small operators are particularly affected by these changes. They argue that without policy adjustments or financial relief measures, many drivers may find it increasingly difficult to sustain their businesses.

Peaceful Demonstration Planned

The February 28 protest at Jantar Mantar has been described by organizers as a peaceful gathering intended to draw attention to these concerns. The association emphasized that the demonstration aims to seek constructive dialogue with policymakers rather than disrupt public life.

Members from Delhi and neighbouring states are expected to participate. Organizers have indicated that they hope the protest will prompt discussions between transport stakeholders and government authorities to find practical solutions.

As the date approaches, the focus remains on whether the planned demonstration will lead to meaningful engagement on issues such as transport regulation, fare policies and compliance standards in the rapidly evolving urban mobility landscape.