Pic from: http://puddlerides.wordpress.comHow to avoid being cheated by Auto drivers in Bangalore
Come to Bangalore and you'll have ur share of bad experiences with Auto drivers. Autorikshaw is a necessity you can't avoid in Bangalore, (unless u take cab), & for many visitors, it is fraught with many frustrating experiences.
Language barrier makes them interpret you wrongly, or at least they pretend to misunderstand your destination. They take u to a wrong place and then charge you a hefty
Most of them take you around to a destination and charge you for all the time you sit for a short trip
After 9:00 Pm, they are reluctant to come, unless you comply with their 1 1/2 or double or the rate they quote
How to minimize
First - Understand your destination. Ask people about the landmark around it. Put it in writing and make it clean to the Auto driver on where you want to go.
Second - Unless you know the exact route, don't go with the meter. He's take you in the longest route :(
Third - Decide on the rate before you get in. Even if it's some extra 10 or 20 from the usual rate, it's fine.
Finally the most important:
If you get time, ask people the possible auto fare. Have this in mind, before you talk to the auto. Use it as a benchmark to negotiate with him.
Despite taking care on all these, chances of being swindled by these khaki fellas, unless you're lucky to meet a good Samaritan Auto driver. Yes, there are still good people.
