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 account went viral on Reddit, raising alarms about the risks of using autos and app-based rides.
Inside the Incident
She normally books autos via apps for her office commute but had to opt for Ola when her regular app showed no availability. Shortly into the trip, the driver halted, saying his phone navigation had stopped working. She later found out he had secretly ended the trip on the app during this stop, meaning it was no longer tracking them.
He then steered the auto down an unfamiliar road, immediately raising her suspicions. Signs indicated they were moving opposite to her office, toward a distant area almost two hours away, far longer than her normal 30-45-minute commute.
When she told him to turn around, he kept repeating that Google Maps showed this route and drove fast on busy roads, leaving her trapped.
Luckily, her partner was alert when she texted him, immediately calling her and demanding the driver return. Only after her partner’s angry intervention, and her thinking of jumping out, did the driver bring her back close to home, take no fare, and drive away. They felt certain he intended to abduct her, as he left without taking any money.
She felt shaken and frustrated, discovering Ola had no effective safety tools, only directing her to “call the police” with no formal complaint options.
This wasn’t an isolated case—recent police reports in Delhi and nearby areas have highlighted similar incidents with auto drivers, including alleged kidnapping attempts. For example, a teen girl in Thane recently escaped by using a compass and leaping from a moving auto.
Public Reaction on Reddit
Many Reddit users expressed alarm and empathy, writing remarks such as, “Terrifying experience” and “Absolutely scary”. Several advised her to file a police complaint and escalate the matter to Ola through social channels.
Users also shared their own safety tips and past encounters:
• Have your keys ready to defend yourself if needed.
• Talk loudly on the phone about your route or play Google Maps aloud so drivers know you’re being tracked.
• Use metro transport as a safer alternative when traveling solo.
• Many agreed Ola’s safety shortcomings make it unreliable.
Important Safety Tips from the Victim
• Avoid Booking Autos Alone When Possible: Solo bookings pose risks since drivers aren’t always trustworthy.
• Match The Auto Number: Ensure the auto’s number matches the app record before entering.
• Only Board After OTP Verification: Board once your one-time code is entered and the trip is live.
• Monitor the Ride on Your Phone: Stay on the app to ensure the ride remains active.
• Send Live Location to Someone: Let a family member or friend track your trip live.
• Dolly chaiwala Choose an Exit-Friendly Seat: Choose a seat that lets you exit easily in emergencies.
• Book Only for Familiar Routes: Use ride services only when you know the route well.
• Check Google Maps: Keep maps open to ensure you’re on the correct route.
• Know Where Help Is Available: Be conscious of where help is nearby.
• Steer Clear of Ola: The victim warned others to skip Ola entirely for safety.
This event highlights the pressing demand for better driver verification, constant ride tracking, and effective emergency assistance from ride-hailing services.
Disclaimer: Duniya Daily News Team has not independently verified this story; we are sharing it from Reddit for public awareness.
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