A shocking incident in Hyderabad has gone viral after a commuter revealed that a local cab driver demanded an exorbitant ₹5,000 fare for a simple drop to Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA), Shamshabad. The complaint, shared on social media, sparked widespread outrage among residents and frequent travelers, who called for stricter monitoring of app based and private taxi fares.
The Incident
According to reports, the passenger a city resident who booked a cab through a popular aggregator was quoted around ₹1,200 on the app for the airport ride. However, upon reaching the pick-up point, the driver insisted on canceling the booking and demanded ₹5,000 in cash, claiming “night time charges” and “extra airport entry fee.”
When the passenger refused to comply, the driver allegedly became argumentative and left the location. The commuter later shared screenshots and a brief video of the altercation online, tagging Hyderabad Traffic Police, TSRTC and the Transport Department, urging immediate action against such exploitative practices.
Public Reaction
Social media platforms were flooded with responses from citizens who narrated similar experiences. Many said they were charged double or triple the normal rate for late night or early morning trips to the airport.
Commuters pointed out that such incidents often occur when:
- Drivers ask passengers to cancel app rides and pay directly.
- There is high demand during rain or odd hours.
- Some drivers operate without registered taxi licenses near airports or IT corridors.
Authorities Respond
The Cyberabad Traffic Police confirmed that they had received multiple complaints and were coordinating with app based companies to trace the driver involved. Officials stated that overcharging passengers or canceling app bookings to demand cash violates both Motor Vehicles Act provisions and company service policies.
A senior official said,
“We are investigating the case. Drivers found demanding extra charges will face strict action, including license suspension and penalty.”
The Telangana Transport Department has also advised passengers to avoid cash payments, book only through verified apps and report any misconduct immediately via helpline numbers.
Why Such Incidents Are Increasing
Experts say surge pricing algorithms and fuel price hikes have indirectly encouraged some drivers to bypass platforms and demand direct payments. Additionally, lack of proper fare regulation at airports during peak hours has made commuters vulnerable.
Consumer rights groups have urged airport authorities and app companies to display fixed fare charts at terminals and ensure real-time tracking of fare violations.
Safety and Awareness for Commuters
Passengers are advised to:
- Never cancel a confirmed app booking at a driver’s request.
- Check the fare estimate and confirm toll airport charges in advance.
- Report misconduct through app support or local police helplines (Dial 100).
- Avoid unregistered vehicles and note vehicle and driver details before travel.
Final Note
The incident serves as a reminder that transparency and accountability in ride hailing services remain a challenge. As Hyderabad continues to expand as a tech and travel hub, citizens and authorities must work together to ensure safe, fair, and reliable transport for all.
