Pune auto drivers to pay daily fee for Uber access

Pune's Uber auto-rickshaw drivers will start charging passengers based on government-approved meter rates beginning April 1, 2025. This change follows an agreement signed on February 18, aimed at aligning Uber's services with regular auto-rickshaw operations. Under this new arrangement, Uber will shift from being a direct service provider to a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) platform. Drivers will no longer pay Uber a commission. Instead, they will pay a fixed daily fee of Rs 19 to access Uber's platform. The new system will put an end to surge pricing, which often increased fares during busy times or bad weather. Passengers will see estimated fares on the Uber app, but the final price will come from the meter reading of the auto-rickshaw. This change gives drivers more control over fare negotiations without interference from Uber. They will also keep copies of the new agreement in their vehicles to explain the updated pricing to passengers. The overall goal is to enhance transparency and benefit both drivers and fare-paying customers.