Pune: Torrential rains have caused chaos for Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad residents, with severe waterlogging in many areas disrupting daily life. Commuters faced exploitation from cab drivers who charged 'surcharges' far above the usual fares, leading to significant financial stress.
Cab drivers also refused service to certain areas, forcing passengers to rely on transport options like rickshaws and buses.
Significant waterlogging in areas such as Sinhagad Road, riverbanks, Dhayari, Kalyani Nagar, and Deccan led to severe traffic disruptions. With many commuters relying on cabs, the availability of these services became problematic.
Passengers experienced long waiting times, with many drivers canceling bookings after initially accepting them, causing widespread frustration.
Cab and rickshaw drivers took advantage of the situation, with rickshaw drivers charging an extra 50 rupees and cab drivers demanding an additional 80 to 100 rupees.
Passengers had to deal with drivers who were only willing to complete the ride for higher fares, adding to their financial burden. Several passengers shared their experiences.
"I live in the Sinhagad Road area. I tried to book a cab to visit my relatives in Kothrud from 12 PM to 6 PM, but couldn't secure a booking. Even when bookings were confirmed, drivers would cancel," said Priyanka Joshi, a passenger.
"I booked a cab from Bharati Vidyapeeth in Katraj to Bavdhan. I provided the correct address in Bavdhan, but the driver initially argued and then refused to come. I had to offer extra money, only then did he agree. This is a form of extortion," said Nishigandha Cholke, another passenger.
