Autorickshaw Drivers Block Kandivali Link Road Over Marathi Rule

A sudden protest by non-Marathi-speaking autorickshaw drivers led to a road blockade on Kandivali Link Road in Mumbai on Monday, August 24, 2026, causing significant traffic congestion and commuter disruption. Several drivers parked their vehicles across the road, slowing traffic and leading to long queues.

The demonstration stemmed from opposition to the Maharashtra government's mandate requiring autorickshaw and taxi drivers to possess proficiency in the Marathi language. Drivers voiced concerns over potential punitive action and notices issued to those who fail to meet the criterion, highlighting challenges faced by older drivers in acquiring language skills quickly.

During the disruption, several protesting drivers reportedly stopped autorickshaws carrying commuters and forced passengers to disembark, creating further difficulties across the area.

Major autorickshaw and taxi unions distanced themselves from the agitation, clarifying that no official strike or shutdown had been called. Union leaders attributed the sudden protest to rumours and a circulating Facebook post that claimed a strike was scheduled for August 24. While attempts were made to extend the stoppage to areas including Kandivali and Malvani, union officials noted that transport services continued to operate in most parts of Mumbai.

Shashank Rao, president of the Mumbai Autorickshaw-Taximen’s Union, stated that the action was driven by fear and misinformation. He noted that the union has formally requested a three-month extension from the state government, urging authorities to withhold punitive measures against drivers during that timeframe.

Taxi Union President K K Tiwari said that while an estimated 80 percent of auto and app-based cab drivers joined the protest in certain localities, union leadership did not support the disruption. Tambi Kurian, general secretary of the Mumbai Rickshawmen’s Union, advised drivers and the public to disregard unverified social media claims.

Commuters voiced frustration over the unexpected stoppage. Mumbai resident Suheil Merchant recounted that his wife’s autorickshaw was stopped and she was asked to alight before the driver managed to proceed. Commuters Rohan Upadhyay, Vinayak Kole, and Moksh Taunk noted that the sudden action caused confusion and urged unions and the government to address regulatory issues through dialogue rather than disrupting essential public transport.