Bengaluru Police warn app-based cab, auto users to verify vehicle details before boarding

New Delhi: The Bengaluru Police have issued an important advisory to commuters using app-based cab and auto-rickshaw services, urging passengers to verify that the vehicle registration number and driver details displayed on the app match the vehicle that arrives for pickup.

The advisory comes amid growing complaints from users of ride-hailing platforms such as Ola, Uber, Rapido, and Namma Yatri, where vehicles arriving at pickup locations reportedly do not match the registration details shown in the booking application.

According to the Police Commissioner, passengers should not board any vehicle if its registration number or driver information differs from the details provided in the app. Instead, they should immediately report the incident to the police.

In recent weeks, several Bengaluru residents have raised concerns on social media, claiming that such mismatches occur frequently. Many users have alleged that a different auto-rickshaw or taxi often arrives than the one displayed in the app, with drivers attributing the discrepancy to technical issues or loan-related reasons.

Police said such inconsistencies pose a significant safety risk, as they make it difficult to identify the actual vehicle and driver in the event of an accident, crime, or any other emergency.

Passengers have been advised to reject rides involving mismatched vehicle details and report such incidents through the 112 emergency helpline or the nearest traffic police station.

The police also warned drivers against allowing others to use their registered accounts, operating vehicles not linked to their profiles, or using false documentation. Such practices are illegal and will attract legal action.

In addition, authorities cautioned app-based ride aggregators that they are responsible for periodically verifying the credentials of drivers and the vehicles registered on their platforms. Companies that fail to enforce these safety standards may also face action under applicable laws.

The Bengaluru Police reiterated that verifying vehicle and driver details before beginning a journey is a simple but important step that can significantly enhance passenger safety.