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A three-day transport strike across Delhi-NCR beginning May 21 is expected to disrupt the movement of taxis, auto-rickshaws and commercial goods vehicles, raising concerns over commuting difficulties and possible shortages of vegetables and essential supplies in parts of the national capital region.
The protest has been called by several transport unions, including the Chaalak Shakti Union, with operators demanding a revision in taxi and auto fares, citing rising fuel prices and increasing operational costs. Union leaders argue that fares have not been revised adequately in over a decade despite steep increases in expenses linked to fuel, vehicle maintenance, permits, insurance and taxes.
According to transport representatives, drivers are finding
it increasingly difficult to sustain earnings as costs continue to rise. The unions have alleged that many drivers are operating under severe financial pressure, with app-based ride-hailing platforms further squeezing profit margins through commission structures and incentives.
“Due to continuously increasing fuel prices, middle-class drivers are struggling to support their families,” union representatives said while urging commercial drivers to participate in the strike.
The protest is expected to affect taxis, app-based cabs and some auto-rickshaw services, although the scale of disruption remains uncertain because not all transport bodies have confirmed participation. Authorities have not yet issued an estimate of how many vehicles may stay off the roads.
Apart from passenger transport, goods transporters have also announced a symbolic ‘Chakka Jam’ between May 21 and 23, which could affect the supply chain for vegetables, fruits, groceries and other daily essentials entering Delhi-NCR markets.
Transport operators involved in freight movement are protesting additional environmental charges and restrictions imposed on commercial vehicles. Industry groups say these measures have increased operating expenses and reduced profitability.
If participation is widespread, disruptions could be felt in wholesale markets and local supply networks, particularly for perishable items dependent on daily transport from neighbouring states.
The All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC) has reportedly written to Delhi Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu and Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, seeking intervention and urging the government to address demands related to fare revision and transport policies.
Union leaders have warned that protests may intensify if authorities fail to respond. A demonstration is also expected near the Delhi Secretariat on May 23, where transport workers plan to press for policy changes.
The planned agitation comes shortly after increases in petrol and diesel prices, which unions say have worsened financial strain on drivers. Commercial operators have argued that without revised fares, many may struggle to continue operations sustainably.
For commuters, the strike could mean longer waiting times, reduced cab availability and higher dependence on Delhi Metro and public buses, particularly during peak office hours. Residents travelling to airports, railway stations or across NCR cities such as Gurugram, Noida, Ghaziabad and Faridabad may face additional inconvenience if participation in the strike is extensive.
Officials have not yet announced contingency measures, but commuters have been advised to plan travel in advance and expect delays during the three-day protest period.
