In response to rising fuel prices, the Delhi Taxi Union have announced a three-day strike from May 21 to May 23, 2026. This protest aims to highlight the binding need for fare adjustments as fuel costs continue to soar. Drivers of taxis and autos across the National Capital Region (NCR) are rallying for action, asserting that despite the ongoing price hikes, fares have remained stagnant for almost 15 years.
Anuj Kumar Rathore, vice-president of the Chaalak Shakti Union, emphasized the financial struggles faced by drivers, many of whom are unable to support their families amid the relentless rise in costs for CNG, petrol, and diesel. The union has called for a complete halt to vehicle operations during the strike, stating that increased expenses related to maintenance, insurance, and other essentials are further squeezing their incomes.
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Delhi Taxi Union Demands Fare Hike
Unions are strongly criticizing app-based taxi services such as Ola and Uber, arguing that these companies are exacerbating the economic struggles of traditional taxi drivers. The Delhi Taxi Union claim that these drivers are facing unfair treatment and exploitation, while the government has not sufficiently addressed their concerns.
The All India Motor Transport Congress has called on the Delhi government, including Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu and Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, to address their demands. They warned that if there is no official fare increase within the next week or two, the strike could escalate into larger protests.
To amplify their message, a demonstration is planned at the Delhi Secretariat on May 23.
Fuel Prices Increase In Delhi: What Should You Know
Fuel prices have taken another hit, increasing by approximately 90 paise per litre today. This marks the second rise in less than a week, leaving consumers feeling the pinch at the pump. In the capital city of Delhi, petrol prices have surged to ₹98.64 per litre, while diesel is now retailing at ₹91.58.
Over in Mumbai, the situation is even steeper: petrol is now priced at ₹107.59, with diesel following closely at ₹94.08 per litre. Kolkata isn’t far behind with petrol costs reaching ₹109.70 and diesel at ₹96.07. Meanwhile, in Chennai, drivers are shelling out ₹104.49 for petrol and ₹96.11 for diesel.
This latest price hike comes on the heels of a ₹3 per litre increase on May 15th – the first adjustment in fuel prices in over four years. The uptick is primarily attributed to the rising global crude oil prices, a situation exacerbated by ongoing tensions in Iran and notable disruptions in the vital Strait of Hormuz.
Summing Up
Taxi and auto unions across Delhi-NCR have announced a three-day strike from May 21 to May 23, 2026, protesting rising fuel prices and demanding an immediate fare hike. Drivers say taxi and auto fares have not been revised in nearly 15 years despite sharp increases in CNG, petrol, and diesel prices.
