Ride-hailing services in Guwahati are likely to face disruption on February 7 as drivers linked to Ola, Uber, and Rapido prepare to join a nationwide strike against what they describe as fare exploitation and continued government inaction.
The protest, termed an “All-India Breakdown”, was called on Tuesday, February 3, by the Telangana App-Based Drivers Forum (TADF), but drivers in Assam, including Guwahati, are expected to participate in solidarity.
Drivers associated with Ola, Uber, and Rapido have announced a nationwide strike on February 7 to protest alleged fare exploitation and lack of regulatory enforcement. In Guwahati, app-based cab and bike taxi services may be disrupted as drivers raise concerns over low earnings, high commissions, and rising operating costs.
What the Strike Means for Guwahati
In Guwahati, app-based cabs and bike taxis have become a crucial mode of daily transport, especially for office-goers, students, and airport commuters. Local driver groups say the strike reflects frustrations that are equally relevant in Assam, where rising fuel prices and maintenance costs have sharply reduced take-home earnings.
Several drivers operating in areas such as Paltan Bazar, Ganeshguri, Six Mile and Dispur said they are considering switching off apps on February 7 to support the protest, which could affect ride availability across the city.
Drivers’ Flag Fare and Commission Issues
According to the TADF, despite the notification of the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2025, aggregator platforms continue to impose fare structures without transparency. Drivers allege that:
- Minimum base fares have not been notified
- Commission charges remain high
- Earnings fluctuate unpredictably due to algorithm-driven pricing
In Guwahati, drivers say short-distance trips often yield very low returns, while fuel, insurance, and vehicle maintenance costs are borne entirely by them.
Demand to Ban Private Vehicles for Commercial Rides
One of the key demands raised by driver unions is a ban on the use of private (non-commercial) vehicles for app-based commercial rides. Drivers in Guwahati argue that the practice has increased competition, reduced trip value, and weakened compliance with transport norms.
They also said the absence of clear state-level enforcement has allowed platforms to pass financial risks onto drivers.
Background of Previous Protests
This is not the first instance of coordinated action by gig workers. App-based drivers and delivery partners had earlier staged strikes on December 25 and December 31, two peak-demand days, to protest worsening work conditions and compensation structures.
Driver unions say the February 7 strike is intended to send a stronger signal to both aggregator companies and policymakers.
What Happens Next
If a large number of drivers in Guwahati join the strike, commuters may face limited availability of cabs and bike taxis on February 7. Driver groups say the duration and intensity of the protest will depend on the response from authorities and aggregator platforms in the coming days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Will Ola, Uber, and Rapido services stop in Guwahati on February 7?
Services may be disrupted if a significant number of drivers switch off their apps, though no official shutdown has been announced.
Q2. Why are app-based drivers protesting?
Drivers are protesting against low and non-transparent fares, high commissions, rising fuel and maintenance costs, and the lack of notified minimum base fares.
