The Maharashtra State Transport Department has launched a crackdown on app-based taxi aggregators for allegedly exploiting passengers during the recent spell of heavy rains in Mumbai. Over the past two
days, action has been initiated against 147 app-based taxi operators, with 36 found guilty of overcharging commuters during the city’s rain-induced transport crisis.
The move follows a directive issued by Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, who called for strict action against offenders. The Minister condemned the predatory pricing practices, stating that such exploitation during a natural emergency would not be tolerated. He also directed officials to consider revoking the licenses of operators repeatedly found in violation.
“Where regular fares were around Rs 200, commuters were reportedly being charged between Rs 600 and Rs800,” Sarnaik said. “Taking advantage of disrupted public transport services is nothing short of economic exploitation.”
