Kochi: Ride-hailing services in Kochi have come to a standstill today as online taxi drivers launched a day-long strike, demanding an end to alleged exploitation by cab aggregators and calling for standardized fare regulations. The protest, which runs from 6 AM to 6 PM, has been organized by the Online Taxi Community with support from major trade unions including CITU and AITUC.
Drivers gathered in large numbers outside the Ernakulam Collectorate, voicing frustration over inconsistent commission policies and unfair fare structures imposed by platforms.
As the city with the highest number of online taxis in Kerala, Kochi is feeling the heat of the strike, with commuters facing significant disruptions.
The drivers’ main demands include:
A unified platform fee and fair commission system
Implementation of state-mandated minimum fares
A 2 km limit on free pickup distance
Extra charges for longer pickups
Return fare for rides exceeding 15 km
Mandatory consultation with driver representatives before any policy changes
Union leaders have also urged drivers of privately-operated online taxis to join the protest and halt services during the strike.
With growing unrest in the gig economy sector, today’s strike reflects a broader pushback from workers demanding dignity, fairness, and transparency in the ride-hailing industry.
