Odd-even: Uber suspends surge pricing in Delhi after Arvind Kejriwal's warning

Taking Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s firm warning seriously, Taxi apps Uber and Ola have temporarily suspended surge pricing in the Delhi-NCR region.

The announcement comes shortly after Mr Kejriwal tweeted on Monday afternoon - "Strict action (including permit cancellation and impounding of vehicles) will be taken against taxis charging rates that are higher than what has been prescribed by the government,.”
Facing criticism for surge pricing that saw passengers being charge upto five times the usual fare, Uber said it "regularly does surge pricing when demand outstrips supply".

Uber further said in a statement that surge pricing - or higher fares - when demand rises, is standard. "Airlines and hotels are more expensive during busy times. Uber is as well."

Meanwhile, Ola also mentioned, "We've temporarily pulled out Peak Pricing in Delhi in support of the government's odd-even initiative" which ends on April 30.

The second phase of odd-even scheme, an attempt to check city's toxic air, began on April 15. Cars with odd-numbered license plates are allowed to ply on odd dates, and even-numbered cars permitted on even days. Sundays are not included in the plan and all cars are allowed to ply.

After an extended weekend, Delhi was back on the roads on Monday, which saw a high demand for these taxi services.

For Delhi commuters, the government-fixed taxi fares are as follows:

Rs. 12.50 per km for Economy Radio Taxis; and Rs. 14 per km and Rs. 16 per km for non-AC & AC black-and-yellow cabs.

For Ola and Uber type Radio Taxi cabs, the fare is Rs. 23 per km. Additional night charges (25% of the fare) are applicable during 11 PM to 5 PM.