Pune: RTO Clarifies Uber Auto Drivers Can Charge Meter Fare with Passenger Consent
Pune, 8th April 2025: In response to rising confusion among commuters using app-based auto services, the Pune Regional Transport Office (RTO) has clarified that autorickshaw drivers operating through Uber can legally charge fares as per the RTO-approved meter — but only if the passenger agrees before the ride starts.
Deputy Regional Transport Officer Swapnil Bhosle, while addressing the media on Monday, said, “There has been no official correspondence from Uber regarding any changes. Our primary concern remains passenger safety and protection against overcharging. If an autorickshaw driver informs the passenger in advance that the journey will be charged by the meter, we won’t initiate any punitive action.”
This clarification comes after multiple complaints from commuters, alleging that Uber auto drivers were charging more than the app’s estimated fare — either through inflated meter readings or arbitrary demands.
As per the revised guidelines introduced in March 2025, fares displayed on ride-hailing platforms like Uber should be treated only as indicative. The final fare must be mutually agreed upon between the driver and the passenger. Uber is also no longer permitted to charge a commission on these rides, and all payments must be made directly to the driver through cash or UPI.
Uber has now shifted its auto services to a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) model. According to a company spokesperson, Uber merely facilitates the booking of autos but does not control the final fare.
Rickshaw driver unions have welcomed the clarification. Keshav Kshirsagar, president of the Baghtoy Rickshawaala Union, said, “There was concern among drivers due to reports claiming that action would be taken if they charged by the meter after an Uber booking. But the RTO clarified that as long as the fare structure is communicated beforehand, there is no issue.”
He further informed that a meeting has been scheduled on April 18, 2025, with Uber and Ola cab drivers to explore the possibility of a similar system for cabs. However, challenges exist as cabs do not have physical meters.
It is important to note that in March 2024, the Regional Transport Authority had denied aggregator licences to Ola and Uber for operating legally in Pune, Pimpri Chinchwad, and Baramati due to regulatory concerns.
As summer heat and transport demand increase, the confusion over ride fares continues to leave many commuters stuck between tech platforms and transport regulations.
