₹130 on a Rapido bike
₹290 for a non-AC cab
₹350 for an AC cab
₹430 for an SUV
And during peak hours, after hopping between 3 to 4 apps, refreshing like it’s a concert ticket drop, the struggle to find a cab always remains.
After a good 35 minutes, you give up and walk to the autos waiting in front of your office, only to begin that dreaded ritual:
"Anna, Cooke town eshtu?" (How much for Cooke Town?)
"450 Rs!"
"Eh? 6 km alwa?" (Isn't it just 6 km?)
"Howdu, traffic ide. Kaali barbeku" (Yes, there's traffic, and I have to come back empty)
"Kaali na? Adhikke double charge ah?" (Why do you have to come back empty? And is that why you're charging double?)
"Bedidre hogappa!" (Buzz off if you don't want!)
"Meter haaki, barthini!" (Turn on the meter, I'll come)
"Meter ella aagalla, hogu" (Can't do meter, just leave)
And this isn’t an isolated incident.
This is the everyday drama that plays out across most prime areas in Bangalore, whether it’s offices, malls, or tech parks.
Daylight robbery? Pretty much.
And guess who the government continues to side with when it comes to “affordable commute”?
The autodrivers' union, which has forgotten what a "meter" actually means.
Bike taxis have safety issues? Draft safety guidelines.
Bike taxis violate vehicle registration rules? Penalize and regularize.
Bike taxis hurting auto drivers’ income? Let’s cancel metros and BMTC buses as well. That'll boost their income further.
Always a fan of this Government's response.
Beautifully pothole-riddled roads? Not my job.
4-hour traffic on the Ring Road? Who asked you to leave your house?
Entire city waterlogged after one rain? I’ll send you boats.
Auto drivers are upset because citizens are saving money? Hold my beer.
This city and its people deserve better.
Until then, happy brainrot bargaining!
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