The bike taxi ban in Karnataka has triggered severe backlash from both riders and customers. As one of the easiest and most pocket-friendly last-mile transportation options, the ban has significantly impacted gig workers across the state. Now, reports suggest that many bike riders are reaching out to commuters directly on WhatsApp in Bengaluru. Many commuters have reported that they are now getting messages from riders, offering pickups at the same fare as earlier.
Bike Riders In Bengaluru Turn To WhatsApp To Take Bookings
According to The New Indian Express, people in Bengaluru are now getting direct WhatsApp messages from bike riders, especially around tech parks, Metro stations and office hubs, offering pickups. The report suggests that the riders are sharing their live location and offering services at the same fares as before. They are also asking the customers to save their numbers so they can book riders conveniently via WhatsApp in the future.
So, how are these bike riders getting customer numbers? They are reaching out to people with numbers saved from online payments, earlier trips or deliveries. That’s not all, some people have also reported that when they booked parcels, they received calls from riders asking if a person was travelling instead.
Besides WhatsApp, some bike riders are also turning to parcel bookings to get passengers. Reportedly, when customers try to book parcel delivery via some platform, they often get calls asking if they would instead like to book a bike taxi. They also offer direct pickup on calls. Reports of such calls have emerged from areas like Koramangala, Electronic City, Silk Board, Bellandur and Outer Ring Road. While many people are comfortable with this arrangement, others have raised concerns over it.
Also Read: You May Soon Book A Rapido Again! Is Karnataka Finally Rebooting Bike Taxis Post July 1 Update?
Autorickshaws Seized For Overcharging
After the bike taxi ban in Bengaluru, there were many reports about how autorickshaw riders in the city have started charging exorbitant fares. Frustrated, many people complained about it to the authorities and on social media. According to a report by Udayavani, the Transport and Road Safety Department launched a city-wide crackdown and has seized around 236 autos across the city for overcharging in the last six days. They even reported more than 900 cases against auto drivers for violating transport regulations.
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