Olacabs offers 50% discount to Delhiites as auto-rickshaw drivers go on strike

While Delhiites are set to experience difficulty following the two-day auto strike from today, online cab aggregator Olacabs is giving away 50% discount today (May 6).

The auto drivers are protesting against the Delhi government’s order issued last week making GPS meters mandatory in all auto-rickshaws. Delhiites can book Olacabs at 50% fares on the two days by calling 011 - 33553355 or on web/app.

Following the move, OlaMini will be available at Rs 7/km and minimum fare of Rs. 75 for the first 6 kms as against the regular fares of Rs 14/km and minimum fare of Rs.150, while Ola sedans will be available at Rs 9/km and minimum fare of Rs 100 for the first 8 kms as against Rs 18/km and minimum fare of Rs. 200. Olacabs also offered its cabs at auto fares during the auto strike in Mumbai in April 2012 as well as during strikes in Delhi, Bangalore and Mumbai in 2013.

Anand Subramanian, spokesperson of Olacabs, said, “We have always been focused on the value we bring to the transportation ecosystem. Strikes cause substantial disruption to regular life also making it difficult for children, women and senior citizens. We have been doing our bit when we come to know of strikes anddisruptions in the city and this time also, we would like to contribute in our own way.”

Earlier in January this year, Uber had offered similar discount when auto drivers were on strike in Bangalore. To give competition to local cab operators and autowallas, Olacabs launched Olamini starting at Rs. 13 per km with a base fare of Rs 100 for the first six kms, making it the cheapest AC cab service available in Bangalore and Delhi.

Olacabs was started in August 2010 by Bhavish Aggarwal and Ankit Bhati, both engineers from IIT Bombay.