Tuk tuk drivers demanding extra money due to Vesak traffic jams
6 Answers from travellers
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This is extortion. The meter accounts for waiting time in traffic automatically (usually 2 LKR per minute of idling). They cannot demand double the meter midway. Firmly tell him to keep driving on the meter or you will get out and pay only what is on the screen right now.
Use PickMe or Uber. The price is locked in before you ride, so they cannot pull this trick.
Some drivers genuinely lose money in 3-hour traffic jams, but they should not accept the ride if they do not want to sit in it.
We got out and walked. It was actually faster than sitting in the gridlock anyway.
Traffic during Vesak is truly insane, but that does not give them the right to scam you.
Always take a photo of the drivers registration card on the back of the seat when you get in.
Scam Watch: colombo
Driver claims the meter is broken and quotes an inflated flat rate. Common on arrival at airport or railway stations when tourists are tired and disoriented.
Drivers wearing official-looking uniforms claim to be "government-approved" and charge 3-5x normal rates. They may have fake badges or ID cards.
Women with babies approach asking you to buy milk powder at a nearby shop (not cash). The shop is run by accomplices and charges 5-10x normal price.
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