Pune’s Local Auto Drivers Caught Harassing Uber Driver in Latest Viral Clip
Pune’s Local Auto Drivers Caught Harassing Uber Driver in Latest Viral Clip
Pune residents are expressing growing frustration over Uber’s latest fare policy for auto rickshaws, which came into effect at the end of March 2025. The new policy replaces fixed app-based pricing with meter-based fares, causing concern among commuters about lack of transparency and the potential for inflated charges.
Under the updated system, the fare shown in the Uber app is now just an estimate. The final fare is determined by the auto rickshaw’s meter reading at the end of the ride. This marks a shift from the earlier system, where users could rely on a clear, upfront fare displayed on the app, ensuring predictability. Many users worry this change opens the door to unexpected and possibly inflated fares, especially in a city already grappling with inconsistent auto fare practices.
To make matters worse, tensions between local rickshaw drivers and Uber drivers have been intensifying. In recent weeks, multiple videos have surfaced on social media showing instances of harassment and intimidation. In one viral video, a local rickshaw driver is seen blocking an Uber rickshaw at a residential society, demanding that a female passenger cancel her ride. When the Uber driver objected, he was threatened and told to cancel the trip and park elsewhere.
Another video, reportedly filmed near Ramwadi Metro Station, captures a group of local rickshaw drivers confronting and intimidating an Uber auto driver.
In a post accompanying the video, the user wrote:
“I was near Ramwadi Metro and recorded this from above. They’re basically forcing other auto drivers not to use any apps. These goons keep intimidating others, and one of them even had a stick in his hand. No wonder people prefer walking over riding with them. I paid ₹100 extra and took a cab instead—because you just can’t feel safe around these goons.”
According to the individual who recorded the footage, the group was aggressively pressuring other rickshaw drivers not to use ride-hailing apps. Describing their behavior as “goon-like,” the person noted that one of the men was visibly carrying a stick, seemingly to threaten or scare others.
These incidents have sparked outrage online, with many netizens calling for a boycott of local rickshaws and encouraging people to use public transport or cabs instead. Comments on social media reflect a growing sentiment that these aggressive tactics are unacceptable, and many suggest that supporting Pune’s public transport systems like PMPML buses and the metro could be the best long-term solution.
While Uber’s new policy may have been introduced to align with local regulations or industry practices, it has clearly left many passengers feeling uncertain and unsafe.
