Office goers in dismay as Uber shuts shuttle bus service in Kolkata

Thousands of daily commuters in Kolkata are set to face disruption as Uber Shuttle services will be discontinued in the city from April 2. Users were informed through in-app notifications, leaving many office-goers scrambling for alternative travel options, especially those commuting to key IT hubs such as Sector V and New Town.

Regular passengers have expressed concern over the sudden withdrawal of the service, which had become a reliable and cost-effective mode of transport. Many commuters said they now expect higher travel expenses and longer commute times, as alternative services either have limited coverage or are more expensive. The shuttle service had gained popularity among professionals travelling daily from areas like Behala and south Kolkata.

Drivers associated with the service are also preparing for the transition. Many have indicated they will shift to other ride-hailing platforms following instructions from vehicle owners. The discontinuation not only affects passengers but also impacts drivers who relied on steady income from shuttle operations.

The shutdown in Kolkata is part of a broader nationwide pullback by the company. Shuttle services were recently discontinued in Delhi NCR and had earlier been withdrawn from cities like Mumbai and Hyderabad. This move reflects a strategic shift in the company’s operations across India.

The company is now reportedly focusing on Employee Transportation Services aimed at corporate clients. Users have been assured that any unused subscription balances will be refunded as credits within seven working days, but concerns remain over the lack of equally affordable and convenient alternatives.