Chandigarh: Commuters across Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula were left stranded on Tuesday as hundreds of cab drivers went on strike, demanding higher fares and action against unauthorized vehicles. The protest caused major disruptions across the Tricity, with drivers assembling at Sector-17 Ground to voice their anger against the Chandigarh Administration.
The striking drivers raised slogans demanding a review of fare structures and enforcement of transport laws. According to Amandeep Singh, President of the Tricity Cab Union, the ₹15-per-kilometre rate fixed by authorities has remained unchanged for months, making it impossible for drivers to sustain their livelihoods amid rising expenses.
“Fuel prices have increased, vehicle maintenance costs are high, and basic living expenses are soaring. ₹15 per km is not enough to survive,” Singh said.
Drivers also complained about the growing number of private “white plate” cars operating as taxis through app-based platforms, which they claim violate transport norms and take away business from licensed operators. They further alleged that the much-discussed New Cab Policy 2026 has not yet been implemented, despite being finalized earlier this year.
The Tricity Cab Union has demanded strict enforcement against illegal cabs and an immediate revision of fare rates. Union leaders have declared that their sit-in protest will continue indefinitely until the administration responds to their concerns.
