Rising Aggression from Pune Cab Drivers Sparks Fear Among Commuters Amid Fare Confusion

Growing Tension Between Commuters and Cab Drivers in Pune

Commuters across Pune are voicing growing concerns about the rising aggression among cab drivers, as confusion over city cab fares deepens. The ongoing dispute between ride-hailing aggregators and the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) has left both drivers and passengers uncertain about the correct fare, resulting in multiple reports of harassment and intimidation.

Increasing Reports of Aggression

Several residents have shared experiences of being threatened or overcharged by cab drivers. In one case, a commuter was asked to pay almost double the app fare and warned of consequences when refusing to comply. Another passenger was forced to end a ride mid-journey after a driver demanded extra payment. In a separate incident, a motorist attacked a rider with a metal rod after an argument over inflated fares. These cases highlight the growing unease among commuters, who feel unsafe while using cab services in the city.

Fare Policy Confusion at the Core

At the heart of the problem is the absence of a clear policy regulating aggregator cab fares. Although the RTA approved standard rates earlier this year, inconsistent implementation has created widespread uncertainty. The Pune RTO recently instructed aggregator apps to display RTA-approved fares, but this decision caused further confusion among drivers claiming the rates are unfair.

The state transport department has announced plans for a standardized fare policy, yet tensions persist as cab unions and gig worker associations continue to protest. Amid this uncertainty, both drivers and commuters remain caught in a web of unclear regulations and volatile fare calculations.

Official Measures and Public Doubts

Pune’s RTO has urged passengers to report misconduct via WhatsApp or email, stating that hundreds of complaints have already been processed. However, many residents express frustration, saying that very little action is visible on the ground. They argue that the lack of accountability allows aggressive drivers to continue unchecked.

While gig worker groups have acknowledged that drivers are under pressure due to inconsistent government policies, they also stress that aggression toward passengers is unacceptable. Without consistent enforcement and transparent fare policies, such incidents are likely to continue.

The Need for Clarity and Regulation

Until a uniform fare structure is introduced and better awareness is created among both riders and drivers, Pune’s transport ecosystem will remain unstable. Commuters are calling on authorities to strengthen safety measures, ensure fair fare enforcement, and restore trust in the city’s cab services.