A Mumbai-based woman, influencer Ruchika Lohiya, shared her traumatic experiences during two separate rides by Rapido and Uber drivers in Delhi. At Delhi Airport, a Rapido driver refused to turn on the air conditioning, angrily telling her to find another cab if she wanted it. Following this, she moved to an Uber ride to Noida, during which she fell asleep briefly and then discovered the driver was secretly filming her.
Alarmed, she contacted her sister and safely got out of the car. This narrative has reignited widespread concerns about women’s safety in Delhi’s public and app-based transportation services. Both Uber and Rapido have responded, assuring investigations into the incidents.
Distressing Rides in the Capital City
Ruchika Lohiya’s experience began at Delhi Airport when she requested air conditioning in her Rapido ride, only to be met with refusal and hostility from the driver. Unable to resolve the issue at Rapido’s airport support desk, she booked an Uber to continue her journey to Noida. During the Uber ride, she fell asleep momentarily and later noticed the driver was filming her without consent. She promptly alerted her sister and planned a discreet escape.
Pretending to hand over something to a friend, she exited the vehicle with her luggage and reached a crowded spot for safety, then arranged for another ride. The influencer shared the ordeal via a two-minute Instagram video captioned, “One of the mosttt unsafe places to visit,” which has since sparked a wider debate on women’s safety in Delhi.
Ongoing Challenges of Women’s Safety in Delhi
Delhi has long faced criticism over issues of women’s safety, especially in public transport and ride-hailing platforms. According to the National Crime Records Bureau, the city reports high levels of crimes against women. Social media reactions to Lohiya’s post reveal deep public concern, with many urging caution and highlighting the need for safer commuting options.
Uber India responded to the incident by asking Lohiya to share trip details privately, stating rider safety is a priority. Rapido also apologised and requested information to support their investigation. Despite these responses, many women continue to express fear and demand stronger safeguards and accountability from ride-hailing services and authorities alike.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This unsettling account highlights the critical need for robust safety measures and accountability in ride-hailing services, a fundamental right for all women to feel secure while travelling.
The Logical Indian advocates for proactive efforts by companies and regulators to enforce safety protocols, transparent investigations, and empowerment for women to voice concerns without fear or hesitation. We must foster a collective commitment to safety, respect, and vigilance that transcends platforms and cities.
