Cab Boom in Pune: Daily Ridership Hits 6.5 Lakh Across Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad
Pune, 10th March 2025: With increasing traffic congestion and parking challenges, Pune residents are increasingly opting for cab services, leading to a surge in daily ridership. Currently, around 5 lakh commuters in Pune and 1.5 lakh in Pimpri-Chinchwad use cabs daily—a significant rise from the previous year’s figure of 4 lakh in Pune alone. This growing demand has led to a sharp increase in the number of cab operators, with 18 companies now offering services, compared to just two in previous years.
The shift from autorickshaws to cabs is largely driven by affordability. While autorickshaw fares stand at ₹17 per kilometer, cabs typically charge between ₹9 and ₹10 per kilometer, although prices fluctuate during peak hours and bad weather. The ease of booking and availability of cabs has further contributed to their rising preference, providing commuters with a hassle-free alternative to navigating congested roads and limited parking spaces.
The boom in the cab industry has also created significant employment opportunities, attracting drivers from other regions. However, concerns about fare regulation persist. While the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) has set standard per-kilometer rates for cabs, effective enforcement remains key to ensuring fair pricing for both drivers and passengers.
