Gurpreet Singh :- Commuters across Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula are likely to face inconvenience as app-based cab drivers associated with Ola, Uber and InDrive have observed a strike, pressing for an increase in fare rates. Under the protest plan, drivers suspended passenger services from 10 am to 4 pm and warned of a larger agitation if their demands remain unresolved.
According to driver associations, nearly 50,000 passengers are expected to be affected by the disruption. The protesting drivers have argued that the fare structure fixed by the Chandigarh Administration in 2025 at ₹25 per kilometre has remained unchanged despite repeated increases in petrol, diesel and CNG prices. They maintain that rising operational costs have made it difficult to sustain earnings under the existing rates.
Association representatives claimed that several rounds of discussions have been held with the administration in recent months, but no concrete decision has been taken regarding fare revision. They have now threatened a complete transport shutdown on June 16 if the authorities fail to address their concerns.
The protest follows a large demonstration held at the Sector 25 Rally Ground, where cab drivers voiced their resentment against the administration and demanded immediate intervention. The gathering witnessed strong sloganeering and symbolic demonstrations aimed at drawing attention to their grievances.
Meanwhile, the Chandigarh Administration has advised residents to rely on public transport during the strike period. The Chandigarh Transport Undertaking (CTU) continues to operate buses on nearly 65 to 70 local and suburban routes across the Tricity region. The network connects major destinations, including PGI, GMCH-32, Chandigarh Railway Station, ISBT Sector 17 and ISBT Sector 43, offering commuters an alternative mode of travel.
Officials have also released updated city bus schedules, with services available at intervals of approximately 15 to 20 minutes to minimise inconvenience caused by the cab strike. The situation is being closely monitored as negotiations between the drivers and the administration remain inconclusive.
