Mumbai-based tech entrepreneur Ohshin Bhat recently shared a harrowing experience with a Rapido driver that has sparked outrage online. In his post, Bhat described how the driver tried to charge him more and on his refusal, used abusive language and threats.
Bhat had booked the ride under the economy category of Rapido, known for its affordable and small hatchback vehicles. However, he was assigned a premium car, usually part of a higher price category. It turned out that the driver might have misclassified his premium cab under the economy section to secure more bookings.
The driver’s behavior immediately turned hostile when Bhat refused to pay the increased fare. According to the screenshot she shared, he threatened her by saying “radd kar do varna pel dunga khade khade” (cancel the ride, or I will beat you) and further insulted her by calling her a “beggar’s son”. (The Beggar’s Child). Despite her attempts to remain composed, the driver continued to taunt her, taunting her with statements such as “Saste me chahiye, pedal ja” (If you want cheap, walk).
The incident raises serious questions about the accountability of ride-hailing platforms like Rapido. Social media users have expressed their anger, calling for stricter rules and better customer support mechanisms to deal with such incidents.
See the post:
I booked rapido economy and got a premium car (driver kept economy type from his side to get more ride)
He asked me to pay more because his car was premium, I refused and asked to cancel so hit me with the classic: pic.twitter.com/RUE0KK09jR
— Ohshin (@ohshinbhat) December 19, 2024
The post quickly gained traction online, amassing over a million views. In response, Rapido has apologized and assured that they will thoroughly investigate the matter.
“Hello, We apologize for the inconvenience caused by the captain’s unprofessional behavior during your recent ride. Please be assured that such actions do not conform to our standards and are completely unacceptable,” Rapido wrote from his X account.
Hello, We apologize for the inconvenience caused by the captain’s unprofessional behavior during your recent ride. Please be assured that such actions do not meet our standards and are completely unacceptable. (1/3)
— Rapido Cares (@RapidoCares) December 19, 2024
The incident is one of many where taxi drivers have used abusive or threatening language towards passengers. In the comments, many people expressed disbelief at the driver’s behavior and urged Rapido to take swift action. Some have also criticized the platform, claiming that it has some rude drivers.
One user wrote, ‘What is happening in the world? Why every time it’s Rapido! Only.” Another user commented, “rapido has the worst drivers and customer support. I always try to avoid it if I can.
A third user wondered if the Rapido driver used an iPhone. “Rapido drivers use iMessage?” Regarding the blue bubble chat boxes available in the iMessage feature.
Why should you buy our membership?
You want to be the smartest in the room.
You want access to our award-winning journalism.
You don’t want to be confused and misinformed.
Choose your subscription package