Shocking Auto-Rickshaw Incident in Delhi: Woman Warns Others After Near Kidnapping
{A woman in Delhi had a very scary morning when her ride in an auto-rickshaw took a frightening turn. Her story, shared on Reddit, has quickly spread, making many people worried about safety when using taxi apps and autos.
Her Experience
She normally books autos via apps for her office commute but had to opt for Ola when her regular app showed no availability. Moments into the journey, the driver pulled over, saying his phone had stopped showing directions. She discovered later that he ended the ride in-app, disabling any tracking.
Moments later, he took a route that didn’t match her usual way, causing instant concern. A road sign showed they were heading away from her office toward a place nearly two hours away—a journey that typically takes just 30-45 minutes.
Despite her protests, the driver kept insisting Google Maps was guiding that way, while speeding along major roads where she couldn’t safely get out.
Luckily, her partner was alert when she texted him, immediately calling her and demanding the driver return. After a tense exchange and her even considering jumping out, the driver finally turned back near her home, without asking for any money, and sped off. The fact that he didn’t charge reinforced their belief that it was a kidnapping attempt.
Disturbed and angry, she learned Ola lacked emergency features, only advising her to contact the police.
Authorities have reported other cases in Delhi and nearby cities involving auto drivers behaving dangerously, even attempting kidnappings. For example, a teen girl in Thane recently escaped by using a compass and leaping from a moving auto.
Delhi Woman’s Scary Auto Ride – Online Reactions
Many Reddit users expressed alarm and empathy, writing remarks such as, “Terrifying experience” and “Absolutely scary”. Many urged her to report to police and publicly call out Ola on platforms like X (formerly Twitter).
Many chipped in with personal experiences and suggestions:
• Have your keys ready to defend yourself if needed.
• Announce your path over a call or have maps playing aloud to alert the driver someone is aware.
• Choose metro travel instead of booking autos when alone if feasible.
• Avoid using Ola, citing poor safety features.
Her Must-Know Solo Travel Safety Guidelines
• Think Twice Before Booking Alone: Solo bookings pose risks since drivers aren’t always trustworthy.
• Verify Vehicle Details Before Boarding: Ensure the auto’s number matches the app record before entering.
• Only Board After OTP Verification: Make sure the OTP is confirmed and ride tracking is active first.
• Keep App Open: Track continuously so you can act if the trip ends unexpectedly.
• Inform a Trusted Contact of Your Whereabouts: Always share your live route with someone you trust.
• Choose an Exit-Friendly Seat: Always keep yourself near an accessible side of the auto.
• Stick to Areas You Recognize: Avoid unknown routes where you can’t judge if the driver diverts.
• Check Google Maps: Follow along on maps to spot detours.
• Stay Alert for Nearby Officers: Note police presence during the ride.
• Steer Clear of Ola: Her strongest advice was to avoid Ola given the company’s lack of safeguards.
This alarming incident underscores 21 21 21 formula 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 this story; we are sharing it from Reddit for public awareness.
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