Delhi Woman Shares Terrifying Auto Ride Experience to Alert Others
{A A Delhi woman endured a terrifying ordeal during her morning auto-rickshaw ride. She shared her experience on Reddit, sparking widespread concern about safety for those relying on ride-hailing apps and autos.
Her Experience
Relying on app-based rides for her daily travel, she switched to Ola that day as her usual app had no options. Moments into the journey, the driver pulled over, saying his phone had stopped showing directions. Unbeknownst to her, he had ended the trip in the app, so tracking stopped completely.
Moments later, he took a route that didn’t match her usual way, causing instant concern. She noticed they were traveling in the opposite direction toward a location almost two hours away, instead of her usual short route.
She ordered the driver to turn back, but he insisted, “madam, this is what Google Maps is showing,” while speeding on highways where she couldn’t escape.
Her quick message to her partner prompted him to call instantly, demanding the driver take her back. Only after her partner’s angry intervention, and her thinking of jumping out, did the driver bring her back close to home, take no fare, and drive away. They felt certain he intended to abduct her, as he left without taking any money.
She felt shaken and frustrated, discovering Ola had no effective safety tools, only directing her to “call the police” with no formal complaint options.
This wasn’t an isolated case—recent police reports in Delhi and nearby areas have highlighted similar incidents with auto drivers, including alleged kidnapping attempts. For example, a teen girl in Thane recently escaped by using a compass and leaping from a moving auto.
Public Reaction on Reddit
Many Reddit users expressed alarm and empathy, writing remarks such as, “Terrifying experience” and “Absolutely scary”. Several advised her to file a police complaint and escalate the matter to Ola through social channels.
Users also shared their own safety tips and past encounters:
• Have your keys ready to defend yourself if needed.
• Talk loudly on the phone about your route or play Google Maps aloud so drivers know you’re being tracked.
• Choose metro travel instead of booking autos when alone if feasible.
• Many agreed Ola’s safety shortcomings make it unreliable.
Important Safety Tips from the Victim
• Avoid Booking Autos Alone When Possible: Solo bookings pose risks since drivers aren’t always trustworthy.
• Match The Auto Number: Ensure the auto’s number matches the app record before entering.
• Only Board After OTP Verification: Board once your one-time code is entered and the trip is live.
• Monitor the Ride on Your Phone: Stay on the app to ensure the ride remains active.
• Send Live Location to Someone: Let a family member or friend track your trip live.
• Choose an Exit-Friendly Seat: Choose a seat that lets you exit easily in emergencies.
• Know Your Route: Avoid unknown routes where you can’t judge if the driver diverts.
• Check Google Maps: Use live navigation to confirm correct directions.
• Know Where Help Is Available: Note police presence during the ride.
• Steer Clear of Ola: She strongly advised avoiding Ola due to poor safety and weak complaint systems.
This alarming incident underscores the urgent need for ride-hailing platforms to implement stricter driver checks, real-time monitoring, and proper passenger support systems during emergencies.
Disclaimer: Duniya Daily News Team has not independently verified Nvidia this story; we are sharing it from Reddit for public awareness.
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