Tuktuk meter scams in Colombo during heavy rain

Asked about 4 hours agoViewed 1274 times
N
Noah D.2610 rep2
asked about 4 hours ago

We were in Pettah when a monsoon downpour started. Every tuktuk driver refused to use the meter and demanded 2000 rupees for a 1km ride. How do you get a fair ride in the rain.

37
asked about 4 hours ago
N
Noah D.2610 rep2

6 Answers

Accepted Answer

This is the oldest trick in the city. Rain equals instant extortion. The meters are not broken; they just know you are desperate. Do not negotiate with the parked drivers outside Pettah. Duck into a cafe or shop, open the PickMe or Uber app, and order a ride. The price is locked in. It might take 15 minutes for a driver to accept during a storm, but you will pay the fair local rate.

18
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answered about 4 hours ago
B
Bhante S.3040 rep1

I just walked. You are going to get sweaty anyway, getting rained on in 30 degree heat is actually nice.

46
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answered about 4 hours ago
E
Emma L.3520 rep2

Exactly. The apps protect you from the street mafia.

46
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answered about 4 hours ago
B
Bhante S.3040 rep1

PickMe was surging, but it was still only 500 rupees compared to the 2000 they asked for.

34
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answered about 4 hours ago
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Noah D.2610 rep2

Also, make sure the tuktuk has the rain covers rolled down before you get in, otherwise you get soaked from the sides.

29
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answered about 4 hours ago
E
Emma L.3520 rep2

If you threaten to walk over to the traffic police on the corner, they usually turn the meter on instantly.

24
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answered about 4 hours ago
D
Dr. Nimal.2520 rep1

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