Mumbai: A massive disruption has struck the daily commute of thousands across Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai, Palghar, and Raigad, as a large section of app-based cab drivers, including those from Ola and Uber, continue their strike for the fifth consecutive day. With very few cabs available on the apps and local transport operators cashing in on the chaos, frustrated commuters are left battling long delays, overcrowded buses, and exorbitant fares.
The absence of app-based cabs has created a ripple effect. Auto-rickshaw drivers and traditional black-and-yellow taxi operators have taken advantage of the demand-supply gap, with many refusing to run on meters and instead demanding inflated fares. Several commuters reported that short-distance trips, which typically cost Rs 100–Rs 150, are now being quoted at Rs 300–Rs 500, with some auto and taxi drivers reportedly reportedly asking for as much as Rs 1,000 for a 6-km ride.
“Earlier, after a bit of effort, we could convince a black-and-yellow taxi for short trips,” said a commuter from Dadar. “But on Friday, most of the taxi drivers were waiting for long-distance passengers and even bargaining like tour operators.”
Adding to the chaos, a section of Rapido drivers were also reportedly off the roads, worsening the transport crunch. Commuters have been left with little choice but to rely on overcrowded buses, which are bursting at the seams.
“I commute via app-based cabs daily. The strike has disrupted my schedule. I haven’t reached the office on time since Monday,” said Tarun Jain, 42, a Ghatkopar resident working for a BKC-based multinational.
On social media, citizens voiced their frustration. A user with the handle @MumbaiCitizenSR posted on X (formerly Twitter) at 11:21 AM:
"Mumbai situation right now. Uber/Ola – on strike – drivers asking Rs 1,000 for a 6 km ride. Rapido on strike. But what does @CMOMaharashtra do before the strike? Discontinue one saviour – Uber buses – so that the common man cannot go to work. While illegal activities are still rampant.”
Ankit Shah ( 36) from Borivali echoed the anger, saying, “It has been a nightmare trying to get a cab. Autos were overcharging, buses were jam-packed, and I missed an important client meeting. Nobody seems to care that people have jobs, hospital appointments, and other important commitments.”
The pain is not restricted to Mumbai alone. Commuters in satellite towns and districts like Thane, Kalyan, Dombivli, Palghar, Raigad, and Navi Mumbai have reported even worse conditions. With far fewer transport options available, the strike’s impact is compounded.
“It’s like we are being looted in broad daylight. Rickshaw drivers are asking double or triple the normal fare and speaking as if they’re doing us a favor,” said Shahid Khan (35) from Mumbra.
Suhani Sharma from Dombivli added, “Auto drivers are charging more than double. Buses are overcrowded. Where is a common person supposed to go? The government must immediately intervene and resolve the issue.”
As the strike continues with no resolution in sight, commuter grievances are mounting. “We are urging the Maharashtra government to step in, mediate with aggregator platforms and driver unions, and restore normalcy to the city’s lifeline — its transport system,” said Kunal Shah of Mulund, a passenger rights activist.
