Pune Commuters Frustrated as Cab Fare Hikes Spark Confusion and Disputes
Pune, 27th September 2025: The recently revised cab fares introduced by the Indian Gig Workers’ Front have left many Pune commuters frustrated, with some comparing the steep rates to extortion. Several passengers reported tense exchanges with drivers over the new charges.
The Indian Gig Workers’ Front, a cab association, implemented the updated fares on Tuesday, citing alignment with the state’s forthcoming cab aggregator policy, which has yet to be formally released. The association had earlier launched onlymeter.in in May, a platform designed to help commuters calculate fares accurately. Association president Keshav Kshirsagar said the decision to roll out the new rates independently was made due to delays in the official policy launch.
A Kalyani Nagar resident said he faced a shock when a ride from Pune airport to his home cost Rs 430, though the meter showed Rs 380. “After being refused by three drivers, one finally agreed but insisted the fare had been revised. I tried checking the rates online, but he refused to budge,” Deshmukh said.
Similarly, Neha Patil from Viman Nagar reported, “I was asked to pay Rs 210 for a 7-km ride to Ghole Road, up from Rs 170 last month. The sudden hike makes no sense, and some drivers are becoming quite aggressive.”
Responding to the complaints, Kshirsagar said drivers had been instructed to calculate fares correctly and that updates to onlymeter.in would soon reflect the revised rates. “For trips under 3 km, the minimum fare applies depending on vehicle type. Beyond that, fares per km are as per the new structure. Drivers have been directed to ensure accurate billing, and we expect the confusion to ease shortly,” he added.
An RTO official said, “We have a WhatsApp number (8275330101) for complaints. We are actively addressing issues, and over 300 auto drivers have already faced action.”
