Bengaluru’s cab services are under scrutiny after a series of scams targeting airport passengers have come to light. Reports indicate that drivers are employing deceptive tactics to inflate fares, particularly affecting women travelers. This alarming trend highlights the importance of consumer awareness in the ride-hailing sector.
The Modus Operandi
Techie Shivam Sourav Jha recently exposed a disturbing pattern on social media, revealing how drivers stop midway during rides, claiming they need fuel and demanding inflated payments. Victims report being pressured to pay amounts significantly higher than the fare displayed on their apps. For instance, one driver allegedly charged ₹5,194 for a ride that should have cost only ₹914.
A Moneycontrol investigation confirmed that cab driver Bharath Gowda scammed multiple passengers at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport over several months. The driver exploited the anonymity of the airport’s dedicated cab zones, where passengers receive an OTP but no assigned vehicle until they board. This allowed him to cancel trips and show fake fare screenshots without any official record of the ride.
Victim Experiences
Several victims have come forward with similar stories. Krishna Kant Verma recounted his experience, stating that after sharing his OTP with the driver, he was shown a fabricated fare on the driver’s phone at the end of the trip. Despite contacting Ola customer care, he received no assistance as there was no record of his ride.Another victim, Loiyum Khuman, filed an FIR against the driver after being charged ₹5,194 instead of ₹914 for his trip from the airport on January 5, 2024. He reported that after an argument, he reluctantly paid via UPI. Following public outcry and media coverage, police registered an FIR against Gowda on February 13, 2024, under IPC sections for cheating and forgery.
Recent Developments
In response to mounting complaints, Bengaluru police have registered an FIR against Bharath Gowda under IPC sections for cheating and forgery. This action follows numerous reports from victims who experienced similar scams between June 2023 and January 2024. The police are now investigating whether other drivers are involved in similar fraudulent activities.
New Tactics Emerge
In addition to fare manipulation, reports have surfaced of drivers taking shortcuts to avoid tolls while still charging passengers inflated prices. Drivers have been known to stop mid-journey to demand fuel payments or threaten passengers with missed flights if they refuse to comply.
The Need for Consumer Awareness
This situation underscores the urgent need for stricter regulations and oversight in the ride-hailing industry. Companies like Ola and Uber have faced criticism in the past for their lack of transparency in pricing and driver accountability. Such issues are critical for conscious consumers who prioritize ethical practices and fairness in their purchasing decisions.
Conclusion
As these scams continue to affect unsuspecting passengers, it is crucial for consumers to remain vigilant and informed about their rights when using ride-hailing services. Sharing experiences and raising awareness can help deter fraudulent practices in Bengaluru’s transportation sector.
Have you ever experienced a similar scam while using ride-hailing services? Share your stories and tips for staying safe in the comments below!
