The statewide strike by online taxi drivers in Kerala has been temporarily called off after Uber sought one week to consider the drivers’ demands.
The All-Kerala Online Drivers Union Alliance had launched the indefinite strike over concerns including fair fare revisions, platform commission rates, driver earnings and working conditions. The agitation had left a large share of app-based taxis offline and led to significant fare surges in some areas.
The union said other cab aggregators had agreed to discuss the drivers’ demands, while Uber requested additional time to make a decision. The drivers have agreed to withdraw the strike for now, but warned that the agitation could resume if their concerns are not addressed.
The drivers are seeking fairer fare structures and a cap on platform commissions. Union leaders have also raised concerns about low earnings amid rising fuel and vehicle maintenance costs.
With drivers expected to return to online services, taxi availability and fares are likely to move closer to normal levels. However, the dispute remains unresolved until the platforms provide concrete assurances on the drivers’ demands.
