Delhi-NCR Hit by Massive Auto-Taxi Strike, 4 Lakh Drivers Join Three-Day 'Chakka Jam'

New Delhi: A three-day commercial vehicle strike called by the All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC) began on Thursday. Commercial vehicles, including cabs, autos, and trucks, are included in the strike. The strike call has been given by commercial vehicle unions, including the 'Chalak Shakti Union', which wrote to the Delhi Lieutenant Governor, Chief Minister, Transport Minister and Police Commissioner informing them about the agitation. 

How many unions are striking?

More than 68 transport unions under the banner of the All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC) and the United Front of All Transport Associations (UFTA) have announced their participation in the 'chakka jam' from May 21 to May 23. The strike could cause inconvenience to millions of people in the NCR.

What did the unions write in letter?

The unions are demanding a fare revision in Delhi-NCR following the steep hike in fuel prices (petrol, diesel, and CNG), and an app policy. 

The strike has been called by commercial vehicle unions, including the Chalak Shakti Union. The unions have written to the Lieutenant Governor, Chief Minister, Transport Minister, and Police Commissioner of Delhi, informing them of the movement.

In the letter, the union argued that taxi and commercial vehicle fares in Delhi-NCR have remained unchanged for nearly 15 years, while the prices of CNG, petrol, and diesel have been rising. It added that frequent fuel price hikes are making it increasingly difficult for drivers to manage their expenses.

"More than 68 transport associations and unions across Delhi NCR have come together under the banner of AIMTC and have decided to suspend their transport operations for three days from May 21 to May 23 in Delhi-NCR against the unjust and unfair policies imposed by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM), courts and the Delhi government on the transport sector," a statement said. 

What about other city?

The transport union strike has no impact on Gurugram. Vehicles from here will not go to Delhi. Transport union members will stop them at the border. There are no restrictions on travel from Delhi to Gurugram. Gurugram vehicles will continue to operate in Gurugram.

What are the demands of the unions?

• Taxi and auto fares should be changed immediately.
• The increase in Environment Compensation Charge (ECC) imposed on commercial vehicles should be withdrawn.
• The proposed ban on BS-4 and older commercial vehicles in Delhi-NCR from November 2026 should be reconsidered.
• Stricter regulations should be imposed on app-based cab aggregators.
• Relief should be provided from rising operational expenses and fuel prices.
• Transporters have also objected to the recent increase in ECC, which significantly increased the charges for light commercial vehicles and trucks entering Delhi.