Pune Cab Drivers Refuse AC, Demand Extra Charges Amid Scorching Heat
Residents of Pune opting for cab services are facing a distressing situation during the current sweltering heatwave. Numerous commuters have reported that cab drivers are either outright refusing to switch on air conditioners or demanding additional money for the service. This leaves passengers hot, hassled, and forced to pay extra, contradicting the policies of ride-hailing companies.
Complaints from Commuters Highlight Widespread Issue
Working professional Payal Kumar booked a Rapido cab from Vimannagar to Deccan on a Monday evening. She was compelled to pay Rs 300 instead of the app-displayed fare of Rs 200. "The driver insisted that the rate of Rs 25 per km would apply, totaling Rs 300. When I questioned the extra charge, he claimed it was because I demanded the AC be switched on. Customer care informed me this was incorrect," Kumar told sources.
Delhi resident Hardeep Nahar, visiting Pune for business, experienced a similar ordeal. "Traveling from Pune airport to Koregaon Park in an Uber cab, the driver refused to turn on the AC. Upon insistence, he demanded an extra Rs 100, citing high CNG prices and claiming Uber Go cabs are non-AC. I cancelled the ride immediately," Nahar stated.
Authorities Fail to Act Despite Assurances
Pune cab drivers have been charging fares based on a website for approximately a year, deviating from app rates. Recently, after a driver bit a customer's fingers during a fare dispute, State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik assured investigation and action against such issues. However, no tangible measures have been implemented on the ground, leaving commuters frustrated.
Teacher Ashwin Dixit from BT Kawde Road had to cancel two rides recently due to excessive AC charges. "I am aware of this pay-by-meter antic and have accepted it, as authorities are inactive. Drivers are becoming violent and abusive. One driver asked for Rs 50 extra, another Rs 150, on a Rs 160 app fare. I took an autorickshaw instead," Dixit explained.
RTO and Company Responses
Regional Transport Office officials continue urging commuters to file complaints via their WhatsApp number, but enforcement remains lax. Meanwhile, a Rapido spokesperson clarified, "Rapido has not issued any directive for drivers to switch off ACs. In Pune, all Rapido cabs must operate with ACs on—a non-negotiable standard given the weather."
The spokesperson added that Rapido will introduce an in-app welcome announcement for Pune customers, reminding both riders and drivers to ensure the AC is on at the start of every trip. Queries sent to Uber yielded no response at the time of reporting.
Broader Implications and Consumer Advice
This issue underscores a significant gap between company policies and on-ground practices, exacerbated by inadequate regulatory oversight. Commuters are advised to:
- Report incidents immediately through official app channels.
- Contact RTO via WhatsApp for formal complaints.
- Verify fare details and AC policies before starting rides.
As Pune battles extreme heat, the failure to address these complaints not only compromises passenger comfort but also raises concerns about consumer rights and safety in the ride-hailing ecosystem.
