“One of the Most Unsafe Places”: Mumbai Woman Shares Chilling Experiences with Delhi Cab Drivers
A woman from Mumbai has described two deeply unsettling incidents she faced while travelling in Delhi, calling the city “one of the most unsafe places” for women. Her account has drawn attention to how vulnerable female commuters can be, even when using app-based taxi services that claim to prioritise safety.
First Ride – Hostility Over a Simple Request
The first incident took place soon after she landed in Delhi and booked a Rapido ride from the airport. When she politely asked the driver to switch on the air conditioning, his reaction shocked her. He refused outright, saying it would be done “at his will” and suggested she book another cab if she wanted AC.
What should have been a straightforward airport transfer instead turned into an uncomfortable and tense ride, leaving her unsettled.
Second Ride – A Disturbing Breach of Privacy
The second incident, during an Uber trip to Noida, was even more alarming. Feeling tired, she dozed off for a short while. Upon waking, she noticed that the driver was secretly recording her while she slept.
Realising the danger, she quickly texted her sister, shared the trip details, and pretended to take a call. At the first opportunity, she stepped out in a public area, distanced herself from the vehicle, and booked a new ride.
Company Reactions
Both companies responded publicly after her post gained attention:
- Rapido issued an apology and asked her to share the ride details privately so they could investigate.
- Uber expressed concern, emphasising passenger safety as a priority, and requested her account and trip information to take action.
Why This Matters
Her experience highlights that unsafe situations can arise even when travelling in app-based taxis, which are often marketed as secure alternatives to traditional public transport. Both incidents—one involving verbal aggression, the other a severe violation of privacy—show how quickly trust can be broken.
Safety Lessons for Riders
- Follow your instincts – If something feels wrong, take action immediately.
- Share your ride details – Keep friends or family informed in real time.
- Report all incidents – Use official complaint channels to ensure accountability.
By speaking out, this Mumbai woman has sparked an important conversation about safety for women travellers. Her courage in recounting these incidents serves as a reminder that vigilance is essential, and that no one should have to compromise on their safety during a simple cab ride.
