Commercial vehicle unions across Delhi and its surrounding cities have announced a three-day strike from May 21 to May 23. The move will bring cabs, auto-rickshaws and several transport services to a halt across the national capital region (NCR).

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) are expected to participate in the “chakka jam” protest.

The unions say rising fuel prices, stagnant fares and increasing operational expenses have pushed drivers into severe financial distress.

Speaking to NDTV, Chaalak Shakti Union vice-president Anuj Kumar Rathore said, “Taxi fares have not been increased for the last 15 years, while CNG prices have continuously risen. Despite repeated discussions, the government has not listened to us.”

Several drivers participating in the protest expressed frustration over their living conditions.

“In this inflation, it has become impossible to run a household. We do not want anyone’s child to become a driver in the future,” driver Suraj said.

Another taxi driver, Ashish, said, “We drive for 24 hours a day. Don’t we have any rights? We should at least be given the right to live.”