Auto-Taxi Strike Impacts Delhi-NCR Commuters; Higher Fares, Long Waiting Time; Check Alternate Routes

A massive transport disruption swept across Delhi-NCR on Thursday as auto-rickshaw, taxi and commercial vehicle unions launched a three-day strike, triggering long traffic snarls, rising cab fares and widespread commuting delays across the region. The protest, which began on May 21 and will continue until May 23, has started affecting office-goers, railway-airport passengers, delivery networks and daily transport services in several high-density corridors.

Delhi Chakka Jam: Auto-Taxi Strike Across Noida, Gurugram, Ghaziabad and Faridabad

The impact of the strike is being felt across Delhi, Noida, Gurugram, Ghaziabad and Faridabad, where reduced movement of autos, taxis and goods carriers has slowed traffic flow and disrupted public mobility during peak hours.

Transport unions backing the protest have called for a large-scale 'Chakka Jam', leading to congestion at key intersections, border routes and commercial hubs.

Commuters arriving at the New Delhi Railway Station on Thursday morning faced immediate travel difficulties as the availability of autos and cabs dropped sharply outside the station premises.

"We have to catch a train to Bihar from New Delhi Railway Station, but because of the strike we are stranded with our luggage and family on the road. Very few autos or taxis are agreeing to go, and those who are ready are demanding three times the normal fare. Usually, the ride costs around Rs 250-300, but today some drivers are asking for nearly Rs 800-1,000. Families and elderly passengers are facing the worst problems," said Mandhir Singh, a resident of Kondli.

Similar scenes were reported at major transit points and office corridors across NCR, with many passengers struggling to secure last-mile connectivity.

Delhi Traffic Update: Ghazipur, Anand Vihar, Kalindi Kunj Among Worst-Hit Areas

Traffic movement is expected to remain particularly slow near wholesale markets, freight zones and interstate entry points where commercial vehicle activity is concentrated. Roads surrounding Ghazipur, Azadpur, Anand Vihar, Kalindi Kunj and the Badarpur border are witnessing heavy congestion. While stretches of NH-48 towards Gurugram and routes linking Delhi with Noida and Ghaziabad could continue to face intermittent bottlenecks and diversions throughout the strike period.

"It is becoming extremely difficult for office-goers, especially in this kind of heatwave. The temperature is close to 45 degrees and standing on roads waiting for autos or cabs for nearly an hour is exhausting. Many drivers are either cancelling rides or demanding very high fares because of the strike. I somehow managed to get a cab today, but I paid almost double the usual price just to reach office on time," said Priya Sharma, an office employee travelling from Noida to Connaught Place (CP).

The disruption has also impacted app-based ride services, with commuters reporting longer waiting times, frequent booking cancellations and surge pricing during office rush hours. Since several auto and taxi unions are participating in the protest, the number of available vehicles on ride-hailing platforms has reduced significantly, adding further pressure on daily commuters.

Metro routes connecting Delhi with Noida, Gurugram and Ghaziabad are expected to witness higher passenger volumes over the next three days as travellers look for faster and more predictable alternatives to road transport.

Alternate Routes for Delhi-NCR Commuters

To reduce congestion within the capital, heavy vehicles are expected to divert towards the Eastern Peripheral Expressway and Western Peripheral Expressway, which are designed to bypass central Delhi traffic. Travellers moving between south Delhi, Noida and Faridabad may also use the DND-KMP Expressway link to avoid crowded stretches around Ashram, Badarpur and Mathura Road.

With the strike set to continue until May 23, transport disruptions and traffic congestion are likely to persist across Delhi-NCR, making metro travel and alternate routes crucial for daily commuters over the coming days.

Why Are Auto and Taxi Drivers Protesting in Delhi-NCR?

"Our fares have remained almost unchanged for nearly 15 years, but fuel prices, CNG rates and vehicle expenses keep rising every year. The higher environment charges and restrictions on commercial vehicles are making it even harder for drivers to survive. App-based companies are also taking high commissions, while drivers are earning less despite working longer hours," said Rakesh Kumar, an auto driver from Delhi-NCR.

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