Pune commuters ‘anxious’ after Uber’s fare shift for auto rides, weigh alternatives

Ira Singh, a professional based in Pune, expressed her frustration with Uber’s switch to metered fares for auto rides. “Honestly, Uber used to be my first choice. It was straightforward; I’d open the app, see the price, and book,” she said. “But ever since they switched to metered fares for autos, everything’s gone downhill. From paying Rs 200-220 for my regular route, I’m now paying Rs 300 or more, and that too without any added comfort. It’s just an auto ride, no AC, no frills – so why the surge?”

When asked how the change has impacted her commute, she explained, “I’ve actually deleted the app. I don’t want to sit in an auto constantly staring at the meter, feeling anxious about how much it’s going to cost by the end of the ride. With Ola, at least I know the fare before I even get in. It might be slightly more expensive upfront, but it’s predictable – and that matters a lot when you’re managing college life, classes, and a tight budget.” She added, “It’s not even about paying more or less, it’s about knowing what to expect. Right now, taking an Uber auto feels like gambling with your wallet.”

Aditya Bijoy, a student residing in Pune, said, “As a college student, it has made me rethink my logistical expenses and budget accordingly. The short rides in itself are expensive, and now the somewhat longer travel has become even more expensive. Though it is fair for the auto drivers, as a consumer, especially being a student, it makes it harder to choose Uber.”

When asked if he preferred other alternatives to Uber, he said, “Yes, as they are cheaper.”

Vedika Madathamana, a regular Uber auto commuter in Pune, said, “As someone who takes Uber autos almost daily, I’ve noticed that ever since the payment system changed, drivers often take longer routes to earn more, and they’re not very polite when you try to guide them.”

“Now, after you give them the OTP to start the trip, they tell you that they are not going to go by the Uber rate… which kills the main use of Uber, which was to go by a fair price,” said Agastya Dhanorkar, a college student, when asked about the changes since Uber started charging by the meter.

Asked about unfair practices, he said, “They charge a lot, and during rush hours, they charge you way more. Sometimes, if you opt for Google Pay, while making the payment, they ask you to pay more than the price they first quoted.” He added that he now prefers using Rapido Bikes and Uber Cabs instead.

Ananya Chandvaskar, a student in Pune, also shared her views on the change. “Since the price change, I feel like the whole purpose of using Uber is gone. It’s no longer about convenience or the price, it’s just not worth it anymore. I’d rather help local auto drivers who really need it,” she said, adding how “as a student, I can’t justify spending so much on an auto ride. I’m medically unable to drive, so I’m left with no choice, but I’m really unhappy with this change.”

(Riddhi Wadhwani and Rohan Deshpande are interns with The Indian Express)