Pune Autorickshaw Drivers Overcharge Diwali Shoppers: Fares Spike 2-3 Times for Short Rides

Pune, 27th October 2024: As Diwali approaches, bustling markets like Laxmi Road and Raviwar Peth have become magnets for shoppers, but an alarming issue has surfaced – autorickshaw drivers are allegedly overcharging passengers, particularly for short-distance trips. This exploitation is leaving women and senior citizens in a difficult position, as drivers refuse to ply by meter and instead demand exorbitant fares.

Many commuters, rushing for their festive shopping, have voiced concerns about being charged two to three times more than the standard fare. The situation has worsened in high-traffic areas near bus stops and metro stations, where autorickshaw drivers often capitalize on the urgency of passengers.

One commuter, Amit Joshi, shared his experience, saying, “I had to pay Rs 100 for a 1.2 km ride, which would have cost me no more than Rs 50 on the meter. The driver simply refused to use the meter and demanded the higher fare.”

Another passenger, Shruti Jadhav, echoed these frustrations: “The worst places are near busy spots like bus stops and metro stations. I was charged Rs 150 for a ride that should have been Rs 60. Autorickshaw drivers know people don’t have many options, so they take advantage.”

Senior citizens and women, in particular, have been hit hardest. “I don’t feel comfortable haggling with drivers, especially when they blatantly refuse to go by the meter. We need authorities to step in and control this issue,” said Sunita Patil, a 65-year-old shopper from Mandai.

Pune residents are now calling for stricter enforcement of meter usage and fair fare systems by the local authorities. With the festive season in full swing, passengers hope for immediate intervention to prevent further exploitation.

For now, many are left with little choice but to either comply with the steep fares or forgo the convenience of autorickshaw travel altogether.