Pune RTO Clarifies: Auto Rickshaw Drivers Can Now Charge Metered Fares via Uber — But Confusion Reigns Among Commuters
Pune RTO Clarifies: Auto Rickshaw Drivers Can Now Charge Metered Fares via Uber — But Confusion Reigns Among Commuters
Pune, April 2025 — A recent update in Uber’s policy for auto-rickshaw rides in Pune has sparked confusion and frustration among city commuters. As per the new rules effective since March, auto drivers using the Uber app are now permitted to charge government-approved metered fares, provided they inform passengers before the trip begins.
However, many commuters allege they are being charged significantly more than the fare displayed on the Uber app, often Rs 50 to Rs 100 extra, leading to widespread dissatisfaction.
RTO Responds to Public Concerns
To address the growing discontent, Pune’s Deputy Regional Transport Officer Rahul Patil clarified on Monday, “We have not received any formal communication from Uber about this change. But if drivers inform passengers before starting the ride that they will charge metered fares, we will not penalize them. Our priority is to prevent overcharging.”
This statement came after reports surfaced of passengers being charged more than the app’s estimated fare, raising concerns over transparency and accountability.
Uber’s Shift to SaaS Model
An Uber spokesperson confirmed that its auto services now operate under a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) model. This means the fare shown on the app is a suggested estimate, and the final fare is to be mutually agreed upon between the driver and the rider. Uber has also stated that it no longer charges commission on such rides and that payments are to be made directly to the driver via cash or UPI.
Auto Union Speaks Out
Ramesh Jadhav, President of the Pune Auto Rickshaw Association, shared that they met with RTO officials after drivers feared action for charging metered fares. “The RTO has clarified that if passengers are informed in advance, metered fares are allowed,” he said.
He also announced a follow-up meeting on April 18 with Ola and Uber cab drivers to explore if a similar model could be introduced for cabs. “Unlike autos, cabs don’t have meters, so a new system may be needed,” he added.
Passengers Express Disappointment
For many residents, this policy shift has led to a lack of trust. Sameer Deshmukh, a software engineer from Pimple Saudagar, said, “If Uber shows Rs 200 and I end up paying Rs 300, that’s not acceptable. Why should we bear the brunt of unclear policies?”
Uday Pawar from Kothrud added, “Drivers rarely inform us in advance. I feel cheated, and I don’t understand why the RTO isn’t taking stricter steps.”
Aggregator License Still Unapproved
Interestingly, both Ola and Uber continue to operate in Pune, Pimpri Chinchwad, and Baramati despite being denied aggregator licenses by the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) in March last year. This raises further questions about enforcement and regulatory oversight.
