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The Aam Aadmi Party-led Delhi government on Monday reportedly ordered impounding of cars of Ola and Uber for charging at least three times the normal fare. Several commuters have reportedly complained that the app-based taxi hailing companies were surging prices as the odd-even vehicular scheme was in effect in the national capital.

The government has also issued helpline numbers for the commuters, Asian News International reported. Earlier Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also warned to impound cars and cancel permit of the drivers of the two transport companies.

Ola and Uber surged prices two to five times during the rush hour on Monday morning. The surge pricing is to "ensure reliability and availability for those who agree to pay a bit more," Uber explains on its website.

"I take Uber every day from my home in Janakpuri to my office in Connaught Place. The surge was five times the usual rate. I had no option but to pay Rs. 800," media professional Ankita told Hindustan Times.

"From my home in Vasant Kunj to my office it takes me around Rs. 400 but today it (cab service) was charging me around Rs. 2,100. I waited for 45 minutes for prices to go down," Puneet Gulati, whose office is at Sohna Road, said.

After complaints started pouring in via Twitter, Kejriwal said, "Strict action, incl permit cancellation n impounding vehicle, to be taken against taxis which charge rates more than govt prescribed rates."

A petition was also filed at the Delhi High Court against the alleged surge pricing during the car-rationing plan, Zee News reported. The court agreed to hear the matter and asked the Delhi government to respond with suggestions to put restrictions on the practice. It will hear the matter again on April 25.