1. Definitions and Scope of Terms
Effective Date: 22 July, 2026 | Version: 4.0
These Terms and Conditions (hereinafter referred to as the "Terms") constitute a legally binding contractual agreement between Somnath Taxi (hereinafter referred to as the "Company", "We", "Us", or "Our") and the passenger/user (hereinafter referred to as "You", "Your", or "Passenger"). By booking a ride through our website, mobile application, telephonic call, or any associated channel, you explicitly acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to be bound by these Terms.
Definitions:
"Booking" refers to the confirmed reservation of a vehicle for the purpose of transportation.
"Ride" refers to the actual transportation journey from the pickup location to the drop-off location.
"Driver" refers to the independent contractor or employee assigned to operate the vehicle.
"Vehicle" refers to the taxi/automobile provided by the Company for the ride.
"Peak Hours" refers to periods of high demand, typically 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM on weekdays, and festival days.
2. Booking, Confirmation, and Modifications
Our booking system is designed to be quick and user-friendly. However, to ensure clarity and prevent disputes, the following rules apply:
- Booking Channels: You may book a ride via our official website, mobile application (iOS/Android), direct phone call to +91 7984588357, or through our WhatsApp business account.
- Confirmation: A booking is deemed confirmed only when you receive a unique alphanumeric Booking ID and the driver details via SMS, WhatsApp, or in-app notification. An estimate provided during the booking request does not constitute a confirmation.
- Lead Time: For immediate bookings, we strive to assign a driver within 5-10 minutes. For scheduled/advanced bookings (airport/hotel), we recommend booking at least 4 hours in advance.
- Modifications: If you wish to change your pickup time, drop-off location, or vehicle type, you must contact our support team at +91 7984588357 or email us at kanjipithiya5259@gmail.com at least 2 hours prior to the scheduled pickup time. Modifications made within 2 hours are subject to availability and may incur an additional charge.
- Punctuality: Passengers are expected to be ready at the designated pickup point 10 minutes before the scheduled time. The driver will wait for a grace period of 10 minutes from the scheduled pickup time. After this, waiting charges as detailed in Section 3 will apply.
3. Comprehensive Fare Structure and Payment
We maintain a dynamic yet transparent pricing model. The final fare is calculated based on the following components:
- Base Fare: A fixed amount charged at the start of the ride to cover pickup costs and initial service overhead. This is typically ₹50 for Sedan and ₹70 for SUV.
- Per Kilometer Rate: The distance rate is calculated based on the actual route taken (as determined by GPS). The rate is ₹12/km for Sedan and ₹16/km for SUV during normal hours. During Peak Hours (7-10 AM, 5-9 PM), a surge multiplier of 1.2x to 1.5x may be applied.
- Per Minute Rate: Time rate is charged for the total duration of the ride. The rate is ₹2/minute for Sedan and ₹3/minute for SUV.
- Waiting Charges: After the initial 10-minute free waiting period, a waiting charge of ₹100 per hour (or ₹2 per minute) will be added to the fare. This is applicable for passenger delays, unplanned halts, and extended stops requested by the passenger.
- Parking and Tolls: All parking fees, toll charges (including GST on tolls), and interstate permit fees are borne by the passenger. These are added to the final bill and a receipt will be provided.
- Night Charges (10:00 PM - 6:00 AM): An additional 15% of the total fare is applied as night surcharge to compensate drivers for late hours.
- Payment Methods: We accept Cash, UPI (Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm, Amazon Pay), and all major Credit/Debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, RuPay, Amex).
- GST: Goods and Services Tax as applicable (currently 5%) will be added to the final invoice. A GST invoice will be automatically emailed to your registered email address.
Important: The fare displayed at the time of booking is an estimate. The final fare is calculated based on the actual distance and time taken for the ride. We do not charge any hidden fees.
4. Detailed Cancellation and Refund Policy
We understand that plans can change. However, to ensure fairness to our drivers who allocate their time, we have a tiered cancellation policy based on the time of cancellation.
A. Passenger-Initiated Cancellations
- Super Flexible (Free): Cancellations made within the first 10 minutes of booking confirmation – Zero charges. Full refund if prepaid.
- Standard (Early): Cancellations made between 10 minutes and 2 hours before the scheduled pickup time – a flat ₹50 cancellation fee applies.
- Late Cancellation: Cancellations made between 2 hours and 1 hour before the scheduled pickup – ₹100 cancellation fee.
- Last Minute: Cancellations made less than 1 hour before the scheduled pickup time – ₹150 cancellation fee.
- No-Show (Passenger Absent): If the passenger is not available at the pickup point and cannot be contacted within 20 minutes after the scheduled time, the driver will mark the ride as 'No-Show'. A ₹200 no-show fee is charged (or the full fare, whichever is lower).
B. Company/Driver-Initiated Cancellations
- Vehicle Breakdown: If the driver faces a mechanical issue or an accident en route, we will immediately attempt to find an alternate vehicle. If we cannot find a replacement, the booking will be cancelled and you will receive a 100% refund.
- Force Majeure / Weather: In the event of extreme weather (cyclones, floods, heavy fog) or government-imposed curfews, Somnath Taxi reserves the right to cancel bookings for safety reasons. A full refund will be processed.
- Passenger Misconduct: If the passenger exhibits unacceptable behavior (abuse, intoxication, damage to vehicle), the driver has the right to terminate the ride. In such cases, no refund will be provided.
4.1 Refund Timelines and Process
- For prepaid bookings, refunds are processed within 24/7 (we strive to complete as soon as possible).
- Refunds are credited to the original payment method used at the time of booking.
- If you paid by cash, no cash refund is provided. Instead, you can request a credit voucher for the cancellation fee amount.
5. Luggage Allowance and Passenger Conduct
To ensure a comfortable journey for all passengers and to protect the vehicle, the following guidelines strictly apply:
- Luggage: Each passenger is permitted to carry one standard check-in suitcase (weighing up to 23 kg) and one handbag/backpack free of charge. Large items such as golf bags, surfboards, or extra large trolleys may be accommodated subject to vehicle capacity, but may attract an additional charge of ₹100 - ₹200 depending on size.
- Child Safety: Children under the age of 5 must be seated in an appropriate child restraint seat. It is the passenger's responsibility to bring and fit the child seat. Somnath Taxi does not provide child seats at the moment.
- Pets: We are a pet-friendly service, but pets must be transported in a secure pet carrier/crate. The passenger must inform the driver at the time of booking. An additional cleaning fee of ₹150 may apply if the pet sheds excessively or causes soiling.
- Prohibited Items and Activities:
- Smoking: Strictly prohibited inside the vehicle. Penalty: ₹500.
- Alcohol / Intoxicants: Consumption of alcohol or any illicit substance is strictly forbidden. Penalty: ₹500 + immediate ride termination.
- Gutka / Paan / Tobacco: Spitting gutka or pan stains is strictly banned. Penalty: ₹300 to cover interior cleaning.
- Seat Belts: As per Indian law, all passengers must wear seat belts. The driver may refuse to start the ride if passengers are not seated with seat belts fastened. Non-compliance is a legal offense.
- Noise Levels: Passengers are requested to maintain reasonable noise levels and avoid loud music or shouting that may disturb the driver's concentration.
6. Liability Limitations and Indemnity
By using our services, you agree to the following liability terms:
- Timeliness: Somnath Taxi is a service facilitator and not a guarantee of punctuality. We are not liable for any loss or inconvenience caused by delays attributable to traffic jams, road closures, inclement weather, or acts of God. We always strive to be on time, but we cannot control external factors.
- Lost or Forgotten Items: Passengers are solely responsible for their belongings. We are not liable for items left behind. However, if you report a lost item, we will do our best to locate it and arrange for its return. The shipping/courier charges for returning the item will be borne by the passenger.
- Vehicle Insurance: All our vehicles are covered by comprehensive third-party insurance as mandated by the Motor Vehicles Act. However, passengers are advised to maintain their own personal accident/travel insurance.
- Passenger Behavior: The passenger agrees to indemnify and hold Somnath Taxi harmless from any claims, damages, or expenses (including attorney fees) arising from the passenger's violation of these Terms, or their negligence/damage to the vehicle.
- Technical Issues: We are not liable for any errors, delays, or losses resulting from technical glitches on the app/website, network failures, or issues with third-party payment gateways.
- Maximum Liability: In any event, our total liability to you for any claim arising out of or in connection with these Terms shall not exceed the total fare you paid for the specific ride in question.
7. Force Majeure (Act of God)
Neither party shall be held liable for any failure or delay in the performance of their obligations under these Terms to the extent such failure or delay is caused by events beyond their reasonable control, including but not limited to: natural disasters (earthquakes, floods, cyclones), war, terrorism, civil unrest, strikes, government regulations, pandemics/epidemics, or telecommunication/network failures. If a force majeure event occurs, we will promptly notify you and take reasonable steps to resume services, or cancel the booking with a full refund if the event makes the ride impossible or unsafe.
8. Governing Law and Dispute Resolution
These Terms and the contractual relationship between the passenger and Somnath Taxi shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the Republic of India. Any dispute, controversy, or claim arising out of or relating to these Terms, or the breach, termination, or validity thereof, shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India.
In the event of a dispute, the parties shall first endeavor to settle the dispute amicably through mediation or negotiation. If the dispute cannot be resolved within 30 days of mediation, it shall be referred to a sole arbitrator appointed jointly by both parties. The arbitration shall be conducted in accordance with the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, and shall be held in Ahmedabad. The decision of the arbitrator shall be final and binding on both parties.
9. Driver and Vehicle Quality Standards
We maintain stringent quality standards to ensure your safety and comfort:
- Driver Verification: All our drivers undergo rigorous background verification, including police clearance and driving license validation. They are also trained in passenger etiquette and emergency protocols.
- Vehicle Condition: Our fleet consists of well-maintained vehicles with valid insurance, pollution certificates, and fitness certificates. We conduct periodic inspections and random checks to ensure compliance.
- Air Conditioning: All our taxis are equipped with functional ACs. If the AC is not working, we will arrange a replacement vehicle upon your request.
- Communication: Drivers are provided with smartphones and GPS navigation to ensure the fastest and most efficient routes. They are instructed to be polite and non-intrusive.
10. Amendments to Policy Terms
Somnath Taxi reserves the unilateral right to amend, modify, or update these Terms and Conditions at any time without prior individual notice. The latest version of the Terms will always be posted on our website and in the app. It is your responsibility to check this page periodically for changes. Your continued use of our services following the posting of any changes constitutes acceptance of those changes. Significant changes (e.g., fare hikes, cancellation policy changes) will be notified via email or push notification at least 7 days in advance.
11. Severability and Entire Agreement
If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect. These Terms (along with the Privacy Policy) constitute the entire agreement between you and Somnath Taxi regarding the use of our services and supersede all prior agreements, understandings, or representations, whether written or oral.
12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Booking & Policy
You can book via our website, mobile app, phone call to +91 7984588357, or by sending a message on WhatsApp. Provide your pickup, drop-off, and time, and you will receive a confirmation.
We offer a 10-minute grace period. If you cancel within 10 minutes of booking, there is zero cancellation fee.
Yes. We provide a free waiting time of 10 minutes. After that, a waiting fee of ₹100 per hour (₹2 per minute) is charged.
Yes, all toll charges, parking fees, and interstate taxes are payable by the passenger and will be added to the final bill.
If the driver cancels due to a breakdown, we will try to find an alternative. If unavailable, we cancel and process a 100% refund.
Yes, a 15% surcharge is applied on rides between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM to compensate drivers.
Yes, but they must be in a secure carrier. Please inform us at the time of booking. A nominal cleaning fee may apply.
You are allowed 1 standard suitcase (23 kg) and 1 handbag free. Extra luggage may incur an additional charge.
Currently, we do not provide child seats. Passengers must bring their own child restraint system for children under 5.
GST invoices are automatically generated and sent to your registered email ID after the ride is completed.
No. Smoking is strictly prohibited. A fine of ₹500 is imposed for violation.
Call our support immediately at +91 7984588357 or email kanjipithiya5259@gmail.com. We will track the driver and try to retrieve the item. You will need to pay for shipping if we have to send it to you.
During peak hours (7-10 AM & 5-9 PM) and festivals, a dynamic multiplier (1.2x to 1.5x) is applied to the base fare to manage high demand.
No. However, the driver will wait for a maximum of 20 minutes. After that, it will be marked as a 'No-Show' and you will be charged ₹200.
Our vehicles are fully insured. In case of an accident, passenger safety is our priority. We will assist with emergency services and arrange an alternate taxi for your destination.