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.
Her Experience
Relying on app-based rides for her daily travel, she switched to Ola that day as her usual app had no options. Shortly into the trip, the driver halted, saying his phone navigation had stopped working. Unbeknownst to her, he had ended the trip in the app, so tracking stopped completely.
He then steered the auto down an unfamiliar road, immediately raising her suspicions. A road sign showed they were heading away from her office toward a place nearly two hours away—a journey that typically takes just 30-45 minutes.
Despite her protests, the driver kept insisting Google Maps was guiding that way, while speeding along major roads where she couldn’t safely get out.
Her quick message to her partner prompted him to call instantly, demanding the driver take her back. 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.
Similar events have surfaced recently, with Delhi police noting multiple cases of dangerous auto driver behavior, including suspected 21 21 21 formula abductions. In one recent Thane case, a teen saved herself by jumping out of a moving auto using a compass to orient herself.
Delhi Woman’s Scary Auto Ride – Online Reactions
The woman’s post drew widespread shock and sympathy on Reddit, with users saying things like, “This is horrifying!” and “Damn, that’s so scary”. Some suggested she lodge a police complaint and pressure Ola via social media to take action.
Users also shared their own safety tips and past encounters:
• Keep your house keys handy as an emergency defense.
• Speak loudly about your route or keep navigation on speaker so the driver feels monitored.
• Use metro transport as a safer alternative when traveling solo.
• Stay away from Ola due to its lack of proper safety tools.
Important Safety Tips from the Victim
• Think Twice Before Booking Alone: Booking alone can be risky as you can’t always know the driver.
• Confirm Auto’s Plate Matches the App: Only get in if the plate matches the app listing.
• Ensure the Trip Is Active Before Entering: Enter only after the driver enters your OTP and the trip begins.
• Monitor the Ride on Your Phone: Track continuously so you can act if the trip ends unexpectedly.
• Send Live Location to Someone: Share your route to ensure someone can respond if needed.
• Sit Safely: Choose a seat that lets you exit easily in emergencies.
• Stick to Areas You Recognize: Avoid unknown routes where you can’t judge if the driver diverts.
• Check Google Maps: Follow along on maps to spot detours.
• Look for Police: Note police presence during the ride.
• Steer Clear of Ola: The victim warned others to skip Ola entirely for safety.
This alarming incident underscores the urgent need for ride-hailing platforms to implement stricter driver checks, real-time monitoring, and proper passenger support systems during emergencies.
Disclaimer: Duniya Daily News Team has not independently verified this story; we are sharing it from Reddit for public awareness.
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