Uber, Ola, Swiggy, Zomato Services Hit As Gig Workers Launch Nationwide Strike Over Petrol Diesel Price Hike

App-based cab and delivery services across India are seeing major disruptions as gig workers and delivery partners have called for a nationwide strike after the latest petrol price and diesel price hike. The protest comes after fuel prices were increased by nearly Rs. 3 per litre, sharply raising operational costs for millions of app-based workers dependent on two-wheelers and cars for daily income.

The Gig and Platform Service Workers Union (GIPSWU) has announced a temporary nationwide shutdown of app-based services from 12 PM to 5 PM on May 16, urging drivers and delivery workers associated with platforms such as Uber, Ola, Rapido, Swiggy, Zomato, and Blinkit to suspend operations during the protest.

Why Gig Workers Are Protesting

The union said the recent increase in petrol and diesel prices has severely impacted earnings of delivery partners and ride-hailing drivers, whose payouts and incentive structures have remained unchanged despite rising fuel costs.

Oil marketing companies recently raised fuel prices for the first time in nearly four years. Petrol prices in Delhi now stand at around Rs. 97.77 per litre, while diesel prices have risen to approximately Rs. 90.67 per litre.

The fuel price hike has been carried out due to rising global crude oil prices and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, especially instability involving Iran and disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz.

Uber, Ola, Swiggy, Zomato Services Could Be Hit

The Gig and Platform Service Workers Union warned that services of major app-based companies could face disruptions in several cities if workers participate in large numbers. Platforms likely to be affected include Uber,Ola, Rapido, Swiggy, Zomato & Blinkit.

Consumers in metro cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Pune, and Kolkata may experience longer waiting times and reduced app availability.

Gig Workers Demand

One of the key demands raised by gig workers is an immediate revision in per-kilometre payouts. The union has urged both the government and digital platforms to introduce a minimum service rate of Rs. 20 per kilometre to offset the impact of rising fuel prices.

According to the union, delivery workers for Swiggy, Zomato, Blinkit, and other platforms are struggling to absorb rising petrol and diesel expenses without corresponding increases in payouts.

So far, there has been no official announcement from major app-based companies regarding fare revisions or temporary fuel compensation support. However, gig worker unions have warned that further protests may follow if demands are not addressed soon.