Pune:
Pune: Commuters in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad using Uber Auto have been left confused and disgruntled due to a recent change in the ride-hailing platform’s operating model. Uber has transitioned from its earlier aggregator structure to a ‘Software-as-a-Service’ (SaaS) model, leading to disputes between riders and auto-rickshaw drivers over mismatched fare expectations.
Since February 18, 2025, Uber no longer charges drivers a commission per trip. Instead, auto drivers now pay a flat daily fee of ₹19 to access the platform. Consequently, fares shown on the app are only approximate and are no longer binding. Final charges are determined by the rickshaw’s government-approved meter—something many passengers are unaware of.
Drivers say Uber now acts only as a location-sharing service and has distanced itself from fare-related disputes. Passengers, however, still believe the app fare is final and expect Uber to mediate conflicts. This gap in understanding has led to numerous altercations, some escalating to police complaints. Videos of such incidents have surfaced on social media, further intensifying commuter dissatisfaction.
Auto drivers argue that Uber has not done enough to communicate the changes within the app. “We were told to use Uber only for ride requests and location tracking, and to charge fares as per the meter. But most passengers aren’t aware. The app should clearly state this,” one driver remarked.
Currently, the app interface still displays estimated prices, with no clear disclaimer that actual fares will be based on the meter. Passengers frequently insist on paying the app fare, unaware that Uber no longer enforces it or intervenes in disputes.
This confusion has led to tense situations at the end of rides, with commuters feeling misled and drivers frustrated over the repeated need to explain the policy. In some cases, police have been called to resolve fare disagreements.
The shift has marginally benefited drivers by aligning with official fare structures and eliminating per-trip commissions. However, the lack of transparency and communication from Uber has significantly impacted user trust and convenience.
Commuters are now demanding that Uber update the app to prominently display a message stating that fares will follow the meter. Suggestions also include adding a feature where drivers can show the new policy to passengers at the beginning of a trip to prevent misunderstandings.
With tensions rising, both passengers and drivers are calling for improved communication and potential intervention from local authorities to resolve the ongoing confusion.
Since February 18, 2025, Uber no longer charges drivers a commission per trip. Instead, auto drivers now pay a flat daily fee of ₹19 to access the platform. Consequently, fares shown on the app are only approximate and are no longer binding. Final charges are determined by the rickshaw’s government-approved meter—something many passengers are unaware of.
Drivers say Uber now acts only as a location-sharing service and has distanced itself from fare-related disputes. Passengers, however, still believe the app fare is final and expect Uber to mediate conflicts. This gap in understanding has led to numerous altercations, some escalating to police complaints. Videos of such incidents have surfaced on social media, further intensifying commuter dissatisfaction.
Auto drivers argue that Uber has not done enough to communicate the changes within the app. “We were told to use Uber only for ride requests and location tracking, and to charge fares as per the meter. But most passengers aren’t aware. The app should clearly state this,” one driver remarked.
Currently, the app interface still displays estimated prices, with no clear disclaimer that actual fares will be based on the meter. Passengers frequently insist on paying the app fare, unaware that Uber no longer enforces it or intervenes in disputes.
This confusion has led to tense situations at the end of rides, with commuters feeling misled and drivers frustrated over the repeated need to explain the policy. In some cases, police have been called to resolve fare disagreements.
The shift has marginally benefited drivers by aligning with official fare structures and eliminating per-trip commissions. However, the lack of transparency and communication from Uber has significantly impacted user trust and convenience.
Commuters are now demanding that Uber update the app to prominently display a message stating that fares will follow the meter. Suggestions also include adding a feature where drivers can show the new policy to passengers at the beginning of a trip to prevent misunderstandings.
With tensions rising, both passengers and drivers are calling for improved communication and potential intervention from local authorities to resolve the ongoing confusion.
