Why Is There An Auto Strike In Hyderabad Today? What Are The Drivers Demanding?

Auto-rickshaw services across Hyderabad were severely disrupted on Thursday, February 12, after drivers observed a one-day strike demanding tighter rules on vehicles entering from outside the city.

The protest has thrown daily travel plans into disarray, with schoolchildren and office commuters facing the brunt of the disruption from early morning.

Union Calls Strike Over Key Issues

The Telangana State Auto Union organised the strike to push the government to address long-pending concerns affecting drivers' livelihoods. Among their primary demands is a prohibition on auto-rickshaws registered in other districts from operating within Hyderabad's limits.

The union is also opposing bike taxi services run by companies such as Ola, Uber, and Rapido, arguing that these options are cutting into their earnings. In addition, drivers are seeking the formation of a welfare board for auto workers and relief from e-challans imposed on autos and cabs.

Drivers argue that the last fare revision was years ago and that current earnings are unsustainable. They cited increased competition from app-based cab services like OLA and Uber as a major factor affecting their income.

Students and Parents Bear the Immediate Impact

School students, who depend heavily on auto-rickshaws for their daily commute, have been among the worst affected. At several schools on Thursday morning, parents were seen stepping in to drop their children due to the sudden lack of transport options.

The disruption not only delayed routines but also created logistical challenges for families who rely on autos for timely school travel.

Cab Demand Surges as Autos Stay Off Roads

With fewer autos available, ride-hailing platforms such as OLA, Uber, and Rapido witnessed a sharp spike in demand. Many commuters reported longer waiting times and difficulty securing rides during peak hours.

The ripple effects of the strike are expected to persist into the evening, when both students and office workers typically depend on auto-rickshaws for their journey home.