As Bengaluru swelters under the summer sun, it’s not just temperatures that are running high, but tempers too as passengers and taxi drivers lock horns over the use of air-conditioners. Most drivers who have signed up with app-based platforms such as Uber and Ola are refusing to run car ACs citing high fuel rates. As of April 7, the per litre cost of diesel is ₹94.79.
“At times, they turn on the AC only if I agree to pay them extra,” said one irate passenger who relies on app-based taxis to commute to her workplace in the Central Business District.
According to citizens who regularly use taxis, drivers cite various excuses ranging from ‘the fare does not cover AC’ to ‘the company has instructed us not to turn it on as part of COVID-19 regulations’. Some passengers also reported that drivers have displayed a ‘notice’ inside the taxi asking for an additional ₹50-₹100 to run the AC.
