Pune: From May 1, app-based cab services such as Ola, Uber, and Rapido operating in Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and Baramati will adopt a fare structure approved by the Maharashtra state government. This shift, aligning cab fares with those of autorickshaws, was confirmed by the Indian Gig Workers Front after a recent drivers’ meeting.
According to Keshav Kshirsagar, President of the Indian Gig Workers Front, the new pricing model includes a base fare of ₹37 for the first 1.5 kilometers, with ₹25 charged for every additional kilometer. Under this revised structure, a typical 10-kilometer journey will cost approximately ₹249.50—significantly higher than the current average base fare, which stands around ₹175. For comparison, an UberGo ride on Friday night covering a similar distance from Ghole Road to Salunke Vihar Road was billed at ₹219.
To ensure fare transparency, a new website — www.onlymeter.in — will be launched. This platform will allow passengers to scan a QR code displayed inside the cab and input the ride distance to receive the exact fare as per the official rate chart.
The Indian Gig Workers Front has stated that the implementation will be phased in gradually, with a public awareness campaign taking place before the official rollout. At present, approximately 45,000 app-based cabs are operating across Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad.
