Several passengers travelling from Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) have alleged that certain cab drivers are using fake applications that closely resemble popular ride-hailing platforms to charge inflated fares.
The issue, first reported last year, has reportedly resurfaced in recent months, with passengers claiming they were asked to pay significantly more than the amount shown on their booking apps.
Passengers report fare discrepancies
One passenger travelling from the airport to Malleswaram earlier this month said he booked a ride through Rapido for around Rs 720. However, the driver’s phone displayed a fare of Rs 1,110 at the end of the trip.
According to the passenger, the driver attributed the higher fare to increased parking charges at the airport and traffic congestion during the journey. Later, when the passenger checked the Rapido app, it continued to display the original fare.
In another instance, a traveller heading to Electronics City claimed he booked an Uber ride for Rs 1,330 but was asked to pay more than Rs 2,000 after the driver showed a different fare screen.
How the alleged scam works
According to Karnataka Chalakara Okkuta president G. Narayanaswamy, some drivers allegedly operate two applications simultaneously during a trip.
After initiating a ride through a legitimate platform using the customer’s OTP, they reportedly run a second application that mimics the appearance of popular ride-hailing apps while displaying a much higher fare.
Some drivers are also alleged to use fabricated screenshots that resemble genuine fare summaries to convince passengers to pay extra.
Airport operator and aggregators respond
The Bengaluru International Airport Limited (BIAL) encourages passengers to use authorised cab partners operating at the airport, including Uber, OLA, Namma Yatri, Quick Ride, WTI Cabs, Airport Taxi and Blr Airport Taxi.
Rapido acknowledged receiving similar complaints and stated that customers have been refunded where discrepancies were verified. The company added that strict action had been taken against drivers found violating policies.
Uber advised passengers to use its 24×7 support system to report fare disputes and seek immediate assistance.
Travellers urged to verify fares
Transport unions and cab aggregators have urged passengers to rely only on the fare displayed on their own mobile application and to report any mismatch immediately through official customer support channels.