7 Cons of Taxi Service from Lucknow to Bareilly to Consider Before Booking

Introduction

The road journey between Lucknow and Bareilly, two major cities in Uttar Pradesh, spans approximately 250 kilometers and is commonly traveled by business professionals, families, and tourists. Among the many transportation options available, lucknow and bareilly taxi services offer door-to-door convenience and flexibility. However, while taxis may seem like a straightforward and comfortable choice, they also come with several disadvantages that travelers should carefully consider. In this article, we will explore seven potential downsides of using a taxi service for this route, helping you make an informed and balanced decision.

1. Higher Cost Compared to Public Transport

One of the most significant drawbacks of opting for a taxi service is the higher cost. While buses or trains between Lucknow and Bareilly are available at budget-friendly rates, taxi fares can be steep—especially for solo travelers. Even with standard pricing models (per kilometer or fixed rates), a one-way ride can cost between ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 depending on the car type and service provider. For frequent or budget-conscious commuters, this cost difference can be a major concern.

Practical Tip: If you're traveling alone or as a pair, consider shared cab options or compare it with AC train fares before finalizing your ride.

2. Uncertain Fare Transparency

Despite many taxi services advertising “transparent pricing,” real-world scenarios often paint a different picture. Hidden charges for night travel, waiting time, tolls, or luggage handling are common. In many cases, fares can inflate significantly after the journey is completed, especially if booked through local or non-reputed vendors.

Practical Tip: Always ask for a fare breakup in writing and ensure tolls, taxes, and waiting charges are clarified beforehand.

3. Risk of Driver Unprofessionalism

Taxi services heavily rely on the professionalism of their drivers. Unfortunately, not all drivers maintain high service standards. Issues such as rash driving, excessive use of mobile phones, rude behavior, or lack of route knowledge can make the journey unpleasant or even unsafe. While platforms like Ola or Uber do offer driver ratings, such safeguards may not always be available with local or offline operators.

Practical Tip: Stick to reputed service providers and check reviews and driver ratings before confirming your booking.

4. Lack of Vehicle Condition Assurance

Another overlooked downside is the inconsistency in vehicle maintenance. While some companies maintain a quality fleet, others may assign older cars with poor interiors, faulty air conditioning, or inadequate hygiene. For a journey that spans 4 to 5 hours, this can significantly affect the overall travel experience.

Practical Tip: Always ask for the vehicle model, registration year, and request a photo before the trip begins.

5. Limited Emergency Support on the Highway

Though many taxi providers claim to offer 24x7 support, actual assistance in case of a breakdown or emergency can be slow or ineffective—especially in remote areas between Lucknow and Bareilly. If your vehicle stalls or a medical issue arises, relying solely on the taxi operator for help can be risky.

Practical Tip: Carry emergency contacts, ensure your phone is fully charged, and inform a family member or friend about your travel plans.

6. Inconvenience of One-Way Charges

If you’re planning a one-way trip, be prepared to pay return fare in most cases. Many taxi services, especially local ones, charge for the round trip since they must return to their base without a passenger. This can make one-way taxi travel financially inefficient compared to alternatives like trains or buses.

Practical Tip: Look for dedicated one-way taxi providers or online aggregators that offer discounted rates on such routes.

7. Unpredictable Traffic and Route Delays

Lastly, traveling by road exposes you to unpredictable traffic conditions. The Lucknow-Bareilly stretch includes both highway and congested urban roads, where construction, accidents, or peak hour jams can cause significant delays. Trains, though less flexible, offer more predictable schedules, making them preferable for time-sensitive travel.

Practical Tip: Start early, check real-time traffic updates, and discuss possible alternate routes with the driver in advance.

Conclusion

Taxi services from Lucknow to Bareilly undoubtedly offer comfort, privacy, and convenience. However, these benefits must be weighed against the potential downsides: high costs, hidden charges, uncertain service quality, and road-related uncertainties. By being aware of these seven cons and following the practical tips provided, you can either prepare for a smoother journey or explore alternative travel options such as trains or buses that might better suit your schedule and budget. Remember, an informed traveler is always a smarter traveler.