'Pay Rs 5 Extra For AC': Cab Driver's Request to Customers Gets 1 Star Rating Online

The main reason for choosing a taxi over an auto-rickshaw is the luxury of air conditioning, especially in this blistering heat. It’s a necessity everyone craves. However, sometimes drivers are reluctant to turn on the AC, worried it will lower their mileage and increase fuel costs. This concern led one driver to post a straightforward notice to his passengers, asking them to chip in if they wanted to stay cool.

“Dear Ola/Uber customers,” the note on the back seat started off, trying to catch the eye of those in the rearview mirror. With a laid-back vibe, he casually mentioned the hefty commission – 30-40% – they fork over to those big taxi companies. “Until the company sets a fair rate for us, we hope you will support us,” he pleaded in Hindi. Then, cutting straight to the chase: “If you need an AC, kindly pay Rs. 5 per kilometre extra.”

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But the response wasn’t exactly a standing ovation. The pic of his plea started making the rounds, and most folks weren’t exactly cheering him on. “Those drivers who never earned anything  before are now earning 30-40k minimum even in tier 2-3 city. Greed has no limits. Also correct me if i am wrong but car AC does not significantly hamper average,” one user commented.

Another added, “I don’t want to comment on their demands however it’s not fair to punish your customers by not providing AC, rather than fighting with the company. Also there isn’t much mileage difference when you switch on the AC.”

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The third quipped, “Emotional blackmain karne ka tarika thoda cazual hain,” while a fourth questioned, “Does AC actually cause so much difference in mileage/ liter of fuel? Opening of windows actually causes major drop due to air drag. AC may affect the mileage inside cities.”

Reportedly, Ola and Uber take 25–40% of the fare as their commission, depending on factors like the mode of payment (cash or online for Ola) and peak hours or surge pricing.