Data-driven study of auto fare patterns and overcharging
Every student in Mumbai knows auto drivers overcharge, but nobody knows by how much or when. We just pay whatever they ask because we don't know the actual meter fare. Some rides feel expensive, but we can't prove it. It felt unfair but we had no data to show the real economics.
For 3 months, I recorded every auto ride: distance (Google Maps), actual fare charged, and calculated fair meter fare using official rate card. 87 rides later: average 23% overcharge, worse at peak hours (31%) and tourist spots (42%). I published a 'Fair Fare Guide' pocket card with common school routes and correct fares. Distributed 500 copies. Students report 67% success in paying fair prices now.
how this started: June 2023 - paid ₹150 for a 3km auto ride from Bandra station (should be ₹64). driver refused meter, i paid because mom was waiting. felt angry but had zero proof. next day in economics class, sir was teaching "information asymmetry" - when one side knows more than the other in a transaction. THAT'S IT. drivers know fair price, students don't. so i spent 3 months collecting data from every single auto ride. 87 rides later, i had solid evidence of systematic overcharging. made pocket cards. now 500+ students carry proof in their wallets. knowledge = bargaining power. 📊💪
87 rides tracked with GPS distance, time, location, and fares
Identified time-based, location-based, and seasonal pricing patterns
Built simple calculator using official rate card formula
Pocket guide empowers students to negotiate fair prices
Every ride for 3 months logged in Google Sheets: pickup point, destination, Google Maps distance, time of day, actual fare charged, meter used (yes/no), driver behavior notes.
Used official Mumbai auto tariff: ₹21 base (1.5 km) + ₹14.20/km after. Calculated fair fare for each ride using GPS distance. Compared to actual charged.
Analyzed overcharges by: time of day, day of week, pickup location type (residential/commercial/tourist), distance brackets. Found statistically significant patterns.
Created pocket-sized laminated card listing 15 common student routes with fair fares. Added "Know Your Rights" section. Printed 500 copies, distributed via school assembly.
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