RTO Crackdown Sparks Concerns Among Ola and Uber Drivers in Pune: Uncertainty Looms Over Cab Services

Amidst ongoing uncertainty about the fate of Ola and Uber cabs in Pune, many people took to social media to express their concerns. This came after the Pune Regional Transport Office (RTO) rejected pending applications from Ola and Uber for the aggregator license earlier this month.

Social media buzzed with rumours of hefty fines, around ₹17,000, being slapped on Ola and Uber cabs by the RTO. This led to a temporary halt in services, especially around Pune airport.

Images circulated on social media showing receipts of fines imposed by over 50 teams of RTO, adding to drivers’ worries. However, it was clarified later that these penalties were only enforced on the first day after notices were issued and were then stopped.

According to an RTO official, Ola and Uber  have a time frame until April 15 to appeal. 

The review on March 11 concluded that both companies’ documents did not meet the required norms outlined by the central government’s Motor Vehicles Aggregators’ Guidelines, 2020.

An RTO official mentioned that permission cannot be granted in principle. However, temporary leeway is being granted for the convenience of the public during ongoing board exams. Regular inspections will be conducted, and appropriate action will be taken as needed.

He confirmed that both companies were operating illegally and their operations needed to be stopped. Senior authorities will make further decisions and companies have 30 days to appeal to The State Transport Appellate Tribunal (SAT).