The problem surfaced after multiple commuters reported that their Uber and Ola drivers, instead of charging the fare displayed in the app, directed them to a website-www.onlymeter.in-to determine the final amount. Passengers were asked to enter the trip distance on the site, which then calculated a fare based on government-approved rates for metered cabs. In many cases, this resulted in a higher fare than what the app showed, with drivers switching between the two systems to maximize their earnings.
For instance, one commuter recounted being charged ₹750 for a 33-km ride using the website, while the Uber app showed only ₹519. Others reported similar experiences, with drivers insisting on the meter rate when it was higher, and reverting to app fares when surge pricing worked in their favor.
Archana Gaikwad, Pune’s Regional Transport Officer, stated that the department was not aware of the website’s existence or its use by drivers until commuter complaints surfaced. She clarified that the website had not been verified or approved by the RTO and that the department had not received any formal communication from the Gig Workers’ Front, the group behind the website.
Gaikwad urged affected commuters to email details-including screenshots of fares and cab registration numbers-to the RTO for investigation. She assured that every complaint would be examined and appropriate action taken against violators. The RTO has also opened a WhatsApp helpline to streamline the complaint process.
The website www.onlymeter.in was launched by the Indian Gig Workers’ Front, which claimed it displays government-approved fares for metered cabs. The group’s president, Keshav Kshirsagar, said the site was introduced to standardize fares and offer transparency, especially after cab drivers demanded parity with auto-rickshaw rates.
However, RTO officials and commuters have questioned the legitimacy of the website, noting that there are no physical meters in most cabs, and the fare calculation lacks official oversight. This has led to confusion and frustration, with many passengers unsure whether they are being overcharged or if the fares are legally sanctioned.
Passengers have voiced anger over the dual fare system, with some paying nearly double the app rate and receiving no official invoice. Many have criticized the RTO for being out of touch with on-ground realities and called for stricter enforcement and transparency. Suggestions include summoning the website’s operators for clarification and launching drives to curb unauthorized fare practices.
The controversy comes as Maharashtra’s Aggregator Cabs Policy 2025 seeks to bring greater transparency and accountability to app-based cab operations, mandating proper licensing, fare regulation, and grievance redressal. The current episode highlights the need for robust implementation of these policies to protect commuter interests and prevent exploitation.