STAFF REPORTER
GUWAHATI: In the absence of an efficient and round-the-clock public transportation service, a large number of Guwahatians are dependent on taxi services for their day-to-day commuting, especially two-wheeler ones. But with the growth in demand for such services, there has been a massive increase in the number of problems for the Guwahatians, with the drivers not adhering to rules and the government not taking any stringent steps in that direction.
One of the major problems faced by the people is the demand for more money than the fare displayed by the applications. One of the concerned users of such services said, "It is impossible to get a ride in Guwahati at the rate shown in the app. The distance between Six Mile and Khanapara in Guwahati is less than 3 kilometres, and the fare shown in the app is less than Rs 40, but these drivers demand Rs 100 for the distance. Similarly, the rates shown by the application for reaching Zoo Road from Six Mile are generally between Rs 120 and Rs 150, but they demand Rs 300."
The second key problem faced by commuters is their demand to travel offline. In recent times, drivers have been seen in groups at key points in the city. Whenever any customer looks for a ride using the applications, these riders demand an increased fare along with the option to take the trip offline. A woman who regularly uses these services mentioned, "Travelling offline is a major risk in the city. How can we blindly trust drivers we know nothing about? If we are using the application, there is proof of the journey, which they want to avoid."
Although the state government as well as the local administration have given assurance that these problems will be solved, no concrete action has been seen from any department. And even the drivers associated with such brands know the same, so they continue to create problems for commuters.
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