The Maharashtra government has introduced a new policy imposing a 10% fine on app-based cab drivers who cancel rides without valid reasons. This move aims to enhance accountability and improve the experience for commuters using services like Ola and Uber.
🚖 Key Highlights of the New Policy
- Driver Cancellations: If a driver cancels a ride after accepting it, they will be fined 10% of the fare or ₹100, whichever is lower. This amount will be credited to the customer’s account.
- Passenger Cancellations: Passengers canceling without a valid reason will incur a penalty of 5% of the fare or ₹50, whichever is lower, credited to the driver’s account.
- Fare Regulations: Base fares will be determined by the Regional Transport Authority. Discounts during low-demand periods are capped at 25%, and surge pricing during high-demand periods cannot exceed 1.5 times the base fare.
- Minimum Trip Distance: Set at 3 kilometers to standardize fare calculations.
- Driver Earnings: Drivers are entitled to receive at least 80% of the total fare collected.
- Safety Measures: Aggregators must ensure real-time GPS tracking, emergency contact options, and conduct thorough background checks on drivers.
- Training and Insurance: Mandatory training for drivers at recognized institutions and compulsory insurance coverage for both drivers and passengers
- Electric Vehicle Adoption: Aggregators are encouraged to gradually integrate electric vehicles into their fleets, aligning with the state’s sustainability goals.
📊 Impact on Stakeholders
This policy is expected to reduce last-minute cancellations, ensuring a more reliable service for passengers. For drivers, it emphasizes the importance of commitment to accepted rides, while also providing a fair compensation structure and safety measures.
