'Taking for a ride’: How unauthorized cab operators fleece passengers at Hyderabad’s RGIA

Hyderabad: Passengers arriving at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) in Hyderabad are increasingly falling victim to unauthorized cab services, with many travelers compelled to use these options due to a lack of legitimate services.

Passenger Complaints

Travelers have reported being harassed by brokers offering taxi and cab services upon arrival.

Vinod, a customer shared his ordeal on social media. "After arrival at RGIAirport, brokers approach passengers for taxis and cabs for rides to cities. Passengers are being harassed by the brokers. Please take the action." he said.

"When a customer books a cab from the airport, the price is often high because services like Uber and Ola include their parking charges. Consequently, when travelers reach the vehicle pickup point, several unauthorized cab drivers offer shared rides, combining three to four passengers similar to auto-rickshaws. Even though you pay a high price, the cab driver may take a longer route, dropping off other passengers before you. Despite the inconvenience, this option appeals too many passengers who prefer to avoid Uber and Ola's steep prices." said another passenger.

Police Response

Police at RGIA have acknowledged the issue and are taking steps to address it. The RGI Airport Police stated, "We are booking cases on them, for the safety of passengers we kept a Help desk, Woman Help desk, at airport arrival, we are also arranging pickets and patrolling duties regularly. Even now if any such incident comes to our notice, we will take necessary legal action."

Concerns from the Gig and Platform Union

Shaik Salauddin, president of the Telangana Gig and Platform Union (TGPWU), highlighted the security risks and economic impact of these unauthorized cabs. "Taxis and cabs who don't pay airport fees and bypass registered taxis and cabs don't only take business away from them but also are a security threat to the passengers. Kindly look into the matter," he said.

He further noted that these illegal taxi services are particularly prevalent in areas like Uppal, LB Nagar, Aramgarh Crossroads, BHEL Crossroad, and around the airport, where they use private (white) number plate vehicles for commercial purposes.

Ongoing Measures

Authorities have set up help desks and increased patrols to ensure passenger safety. Despite these efforts, unauthorized cabs continue to operate, posing challenges to both security and the business of registered taxi services.

“The growing presence of unauthorized cab services at RGIA is a significant concern for passengers, authorities, and legitimate taxi operators. Continuous efforts and vigilance are necessary to curb this issue and ensure safe and reliable transportation for all travelers” concluded Shaik Salauddin.