This study examines the challenges faced by platform-based employees in the gig economy and their impact on job satisfaction, motivation, and mental well-being. Platform-based employment facilitated by digital platforms such as Uber, Ola, Swiggy, Zomato, Upwork, and Amazon Flex has rapidly transformed modern labour markets by connecting workers with customers through mobile applications and websites. While such employment offers flexibility and easy entry, it also introduces serious structural challenges including income instability, lack of job security, algorithmic surveillance, absence of social protection, and work-life imbalance. A descriptive quantitative research design was adopted, with primary data collected through a structured questionnaire from 124 platform-based employees using convenience sampling. Statistical tools including Percentage Analysis, Chi-Square Test, and One-Way ANOVA were applied for data analysis. The findings reveal that job insecurity and customer pressure are the dominant challenges. Motivation levels are inconsistent, driven primarily by independence and flexible scheduling. Overall job satisfaction is moderate, and mental well-being is adversely affected by workload pressure and unpredictable earnings. The study concludes with practical recommendations for improving the working conditions of gig workers.