Techie becomes cab driver for side hustle, picks up fellow IT professional as first passenger – what unfolds next?

In a bid to supplement his income, a software professional in Mumbai recently embarked on a part-time job as a cab driver. This decision came after his wife left her job to care for their baby, prompting him to explore alternative sources of revenue. Initially considering starting a daycare, he pivoted to driving for a ride-hailing service due to legal restrictions. Renting a cab for Rs 1,100 per day, he set out on his first day behind the wheel, unsure of what to expect.

The techie’s first foray into the world of cab driving was met with a mix of highs and lows. Admitting to feeling overwhelmed in the initial hour, he struggled to navigate the app and identify prime locations for rides. However, as the day progressed, he began to find his footing. His earnings for the day totaled Rs 2,328, with notable rides including trips from Kamothe to Taloja, Andheri to Khar, and Mohammed Ali Road to Vashi.

One of the standout moments of his day came when he picked up a fellow IT worker in Vashi, who paid him Rs 501 as a gesture of goodwill. This unexpected encounter served as a reminder of the camaraderie that exists within the tech community. Another memorable ride involved an affluent passenger who booked an offline trip for Rs 500 and even provided an iftar meal and a Mountain Dew during the journey.

Despite the seemingly profitable earnings, the techie’s calculations revealed that after deducting rental costs, fuel expenses, and food costs, he was left with Rs 428 for the day. Reddit users pointed out the potential challenges of sustaining such a job long-term, citing factors such as maintenance, insurance, and commission deductions by the ride-hailing service.

Reflecting on his experience, the software professional found the day to be enlightening. He emphasized the importance of time and generosity, noting that spreading love can lead to receiving love in return. However, he concluded that driving someone else’s car was not a viable long-term option due to cleanliness and safety concerns. Instead, he suggested owning a car and driving full-time on weekends while working part-time on weekdays as a more sustainable approach.

The techie’s story resonated with many on social media, particularly fellow IT professionals who shared their own apprehensions about driving. Despite initial fears, some users expressed that starting with short trips at low speeds helped build their confidence. Overall, the software professional’s venture into cab driving provided valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of pursuing a side hustle in a bustling city like Mumbai.