From April 1, Uber Auto Drivers In Pune And Pimpri-Chinchwad To Operate As Per Meter Rates
Starting from April 1, 2025, Uber auto drivers in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad will begin operating based on meter rates, aligning with the standard practice of regular auto-rickshaws.
- This change comes as part of Uber’s new operational model, which shifts from the aggregator model to a Software as a Service (SAAS) model.
New Agreement with Uber Auto Drivers
On February 18, 2025, Uber signed a new agreement with millions of auto drivers, changing its legal relationship with them.
- Uber will no longer take a commission from the auto drivers but will charge a fixed daily software usage fee of ₹19.
- The app will no longer interfere in transactions between drivers and passengers, and drivers must adhere to government regulations.
This change ensures that Uber’s relationship with the drivers is no longer employer-employee or service provider-customer, exempting the platform from labor laws and consumer protection laws.
Current Auto Rickshaw Fare Structure in Pune
The current auto rickshaw fares in Pune have been revised and approved by the Regional Transport Authority (RTA). As of Jan 30, 2025 the fare structure is as follows:
- Minimum Fare: ₹26 for the first 1.5 kilometers
- Subsequent Fare: ₹17.14 for each additional kilometer thereafter
- Night Charges: A 25% increase in fares applies from midnight 12.00 to 5 AM, with an additional 40% possible during night hours across the district.
This new fare structure marks an increase from the previous rates, where the minimum fare was ₹26 for the first 1.5 km and ₹17.14 for each subsequent kilometer.
Key Changes to Uber’s Fare Structure
Under the new agreement, Uber auto drivers in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad will no longer follow the fares displayed on the Uber app.
- The displayed fares are now indicative only, with the final fare to be decided by the driver based on the meter reading.
This adjustment eliminates the surge pricing model, ensuring fair and consistent fares for passengers while also benefiting drivers during peak hours or inclement weather, where surge pricing would previously have affected their earnings.
Impact on Passengers and Drivers
Starting April 1, 2025, all Uber auto trips in these regions will be calculated using the meter, mirroring the fare structure of regular auto-rickshaws.
- Passengers will experience a more transparent and predictable fare system.
- Drivers will have greater control over their earnings, with the fare no longer being subject to Uber’s dynamic pricing adjustments.
Although the new agreement is in place, there are no visible updates on the Uber app yet. However, users can expect changes to be reflected soon.
Raising Awareness Among Passengers and Drivers
To ensure passengers are informed of the upcoming changes, auto drivers are keeping copies of the agreement in their rickshaws.
- This effort will help passengers understand the new fare system and the adjustments Uber has made in its operational approach.
