Avoiding Parking Surcharges While Using Ride-Hailing Services at Mumbai Airport
Introduction
When utilizing ride-hailing services such as Uber or Ola at the Mumbai airport, you may be faced with a surcharge of 110 Rupees for airport parking. However, with the right strategies, you can bypass this additional fee. This article will guide you through the steps to avoid the parking surcharge while using Uber or Ola at the Mumbai Airport.
Choosing the Right Pickup Location
Tip 1: Use Designated Pickup Zones
The designated pickup zones for Uber and Ola are typically located outside the airport terminals, where customers should wait. It is crucial to consult the app for the specific pickup point to ensure you do not incur additional charges. By using these areas, you can significantly reduce your chances of being charged the 110 Rupee surcharge.
Tip 2: Request a Ride After Exiting the Terminal
Additional Tip: Carpool Options
Uber Pool or Ola Share: Consider using carpool options like Uber Pool or Ola Share. These services often have different pickup protocols that can help you avoid the parking surcharge.Tip 3: Timing Your Ride Request
Timing your request can be crucial in avoiding additional fees. If you can request a ride when there are fewer cars waiting, it can significantly reduce the wait time for your driver and potentially avoid any additional charges.
Check for Promotions
Uber and Ola occasionally run promotions or discounts that could offset the surcharge. Keep an eye on the app for any available offers. Participating in these promotions can further reduce your overall cost.
The Reality of Parking Surcharges at Mumbai Airport
Official vs. Shadow Economy
The primary way to avoid the parking surcharge is to arrange for pick-up or drop-off just outside the airport. However, this may not be an option if you have a lot of luggage. In some cases, the pick-up charges for Uber at the international airport can even be 130 Rupees, which some might consider a scam or an effort to extort money.
Why the Surcharge Exists
The argument is that since all passengers have already paid the airport tax, the 110 Rupee surcharge should not be necessary. However, the GVK (the airport operator) and the police benefit from this through the daily turnover, which amounts to lakhs of rupees. The police, in collaboration with the airport management, patrol the area to catch those trying to avoid the surcharge. They often fine the drivers rather than the passengers, which discourages others from following this practice.
Consequences and Escalation
Drivers who try to pick up passengers from the main road outside the airport have faced legal consequences. The police always patrol the area and catch escapees. Despite not harassing passengers, they impose fines on the drivers, leading to the discouragement of this practice among many drivers.
Sad State of Affairs
The situation highlights a sad state of affairs in India, where profit is prioritized over passenger convenience. The daily turnover collected through these schemes is substantial, and the passengers who end up being caught face the consequences of others' actions.
Conclusion
By utilizing the tips outlined in this article, you can significantly reduce your risk of incurring the 110 Rupee parking surcharge during your Uber or Ola ride at the Mumbai airport. However, it is essential to understand that the existing system is not ideal, and passengers should be aware of the practices and potential consequences involved.