Guwahati: App-based cab drivers in Guwahati have begun an indefinite suspension of services from September 1, demanding higher fares and changes to the existing payment structure amid rising fuel and operating costs.
The shutdown was announced by the Guwahati Online Cab Drivers’ Society and other drivers’ organisations, which said fares and driver earnings have remained largely unchanged despite the increase in petrol and diesel prices, vehicle maintenance expenses and other operating costs.
The drivers have sought fare revisions from major ride-hailing platforms, including Ola, Uber and Rapido. They have also demanded that per-kilometre and per-minute fares be fixed in accordance with government-prescribed rates.
According to representatives of the drivers’ community, smaller vehicles should receive a minimum fare of Rs 25 per kilometre, while the rate for larger vehicles should be Rs 30 per kilometre. They have argued that the existing rates are insufficient to cover fuel, maintenance, and other expenses.
The drivers have also called for mandatory cancellation charges and waiting fees, with one representative saying drivers currently receive only around Rs 8-Rs 12 per kilometre in some cases.
Driver organisations said they had previously approached the government and administration seeking intervention but claimed that their concerns had not resulted in a concrete resolution. They have therefore decided to continue the shutdown until their demands are addressed.
The strike is expected to affect commuters across Guwahati who rely on app-based cabs and other ride-hailing services for daily transportation.
However, Dhrubaraj Axom, president of the state drivers’ union, has expressed reservations about the strike. He suggested that the drivers should approach the concerned government departments, particularly the Transport Department, and seek a resolution through administrative channels rather than disrupting services.
The indefinite shutdown has brought renewed attention to concerns among app-based transport workers over fare structures, aggregator commissions, rising operating costs and the need for greater regulatory intervention in the sector.