Travel chaos continued in Mumbai as the indefinite strike by Ola, Uber, and other app-based transport drivers entered its second day, prompting the Mumbai Airport to issue an urgent advisory to passengers.

The airport, through its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, alerted travellers about possible disruptions to transport services and advised them to arrange alternate travel well in advance. "We urge all passengers to check availability of cabs and auto services and plan their airport commute accordingly. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation," the advisory stated.

The city has been witnessing large-scale disruption since July 15, when thousands of cab drivers, gig workers, and auto-rickshaw operators from across Maharashtra gathered at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan. The protest, led by transport unions and gig economy workers, accuses the state transport department of negligence and failure to enforce regulations on app-based companies like Ola, Uber, and Rapido.

At the heart of the protest lies the demand for stricter oversight of digital transport platforms. Striking drivers allege that companies are violating existing bans on services like bike taxis and buses, despite suspension orders. “Even though the transport department says Rapido’s bike taxis have been stopped, they are still running—right outside the Mantralaya,” one protester claimed, citing active app screenshots as proof.

Demonstrators also slammed the central transport ministry for allowing app platforms to legally charge double fares, which they argue shields illegal operators and worsens the plight of both drivers and commuters. “There’s no penalty for surge pricing, no protection for drivers, and zero enforcement of transport rules. These platforms are running amok,” said a representative from the drivers' union.