When booking a ride with a platform like Uber, most people expect a clean and comfortable journey. However, one man’s unpleasant experience with an unclean cab in India has gone viral, sparking a debate about service standards and prompting a response from Uber India.
Customer Criticizes Uber Over Dirty Cab in India
Rohit Arora, a dissatisfied Uber user, recently shared his experience on X (formerly Twitter), uploading a photo of a poorly maintained cab he had booked. Describing the vehicle’s condition as comparable to a “junkyard,” he expressed his frustration with the lack of quality control in Uber’s Indian operations.
Tagging Uber India and Uber Support, Mr. Arora remarked:
“Uber has no standard in India. It looks like the car came from junkyard.”
Clarifying his expectations, he stated he wasn’t looking for luxury but basic cleanliness and hygiene. As a frequent user of Uber’s Priority and Premiere rides during emergencies, he was disappointed by what he described as inadequate inspection of the fleet.
He further compared Uber’s operations in India to its services abroad, emphasizing that maintaining hygiene doesn’t require significant resources, only consistent effort.
“Yes, it is the issue with India, but it is also Uber’s responsibility to inspect the vehicles and check what they are allowing. It is pretty common around the world except India.”
Uber has no standard in India. It looks like the car came from junkyard. @Uber_India @Uber_Support @Uber pic.twitter.com/10Xo0pgw5O
— Rohit Arora (@_arorarohit_) December 16, 2024
Uber’s Response to the Complaint
The viral post gained significant traction online, with users discussing the declining standards of ride-hailing services. In response, Uber India Support directly addressed Mr. Arora, assuring him of action.
Their response read:
“This is concerning. Such behavior is unacceptable, and we prioritize your safety above all else. Kindly send your registered Uber account contact details and trip details via Direct Message. Our safety team will contact you shortly.”
This is concerning. Such behavior is unacceptable, and we prioritize your safety above all else. Kindly send your registered Uber account contact details and trip details via Direct Message. Our safety team will contact you shortly.
— Uber India Support (@UberIN_Support) December 17, 2024
While Uber’s prompt response indicated their commitment to resolving the issue, it also reignited concerns about the quality of services provided by ride-hailing companies.
Mixed Reactions From Netizens
The incident resonated with many users who shared similar experiences, including accounts of unclean cars, unprofessional drivers, and poor vehicle conditions. One user even mentioned encountering a cab with no seat foam.
By the way, it’s pain to travel in Uber in summer . They don’t switch on ac and they argue
— JaySh (@KVP1984) December 16, 2024
Had a similar experience in Bangalore once. The cab interior was dusty and smelled awful. When I asked the driver, he said it was a rental replacement from Uber since his own car was under maintenance.
— mrkhan (@ponkesparrow) December 16, 2024
I also had a bad experience with uber as the driver did not go through the requested route and threatened that he will intentionally drive slower even when I need to reach early and used foul language . Also raise a complaint but Uber did not do anything.
— Krivi (@Kriviii01) December 16, 2024
Absolutely !! The service , the cars, the drivers are disgusting. Booked a premier by paying 100 extra for a short ride. Got a car with more than 5L km riden. The car was so dirty, public bus could have been better.
Gave 1 star rating, got threatening calls from driver…
— haZzter (@1337Haz) December 17, 2024
You should be thankful that you are getting a car. Here I’m waiting for 30 minutes, followed by driver going in the opposite direction, and not picking up phone, when i cancel, Uber threatens me for possible charges.
— Nishant Neeraj (@naishe) December 17, 2024
My experience of Uber in india – guaranteed grubby seats, soiled carpets, dented exterior, only place in the world where drivers accept the ride, make you wait for good 15min and then cancel? To top ot up they never seem to carry any change.
— The Phantom (@Rajesh49039007) December 17, 2024
recently I booked an Uber Premier as I was travelling with family and it was a long ride.. they sent a 20-year-old car with broken AC .. it seems they have no quality check.. @Uber_India
— ShashaSaga (@ShashaSaga) December 18, 2024
This episode underscores the importance of maintaining consistent quality standards, especially when customers pay premium rates. It remains to be seen whether Uber will implement stricter measures to improve their service in India.
Have you faced a similar experience with ride-hailing services like Uber? Share your thoughts in the comments!