Is Ola a 24-7 Service? Everything You Need to Know

Ola, a popular ride-hailing service in India, is often referred to as a 24-7 service, providing round-the-clock transportation options to its users. However, the availability and accessibility can vary based on several factors. This comprehensive guide will help you understand whether Ola is indeed available 24 hours a day, and what you need to consider before booking a ride.

Availability and Service Hours

As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, Ola did offer 24-hour services in some major cities. However, the availability can vary based on the city's demand, traffic conditions, and other local factors. It's always best to check directly with Ola or visit their official website for the most up-to-date information on their service hours and availability.

Booking Ahead

Ola is indeed a 24X7 service, allowing you to book your rides even up to 2-3 hours in advance. This is particularly useful if you have plans that require travel at odd hours. However, it's important to note that smaller towns in India might not have Ola services available, whereas metros and A-class cities do. If you're traveling to a smaller town, it's advisable to check whether Ola or Uber services are available there.

Service During Lockdowns and Pandemics

During specific situations like lockdown restrictions or the current Covid-19 pandemic, the availability of Ola services might be restricted. It's crucial to stay informed through the Ola app or website for any updates and changes in service hours and availability, as these can vary based on local regulations and safety concerns.

Common Issues and Resolutions

Let's address a common issue—booking a premium Ola cab at 10:10 PM and leaving your phone in the backseat. If the driver is not returning your phone and it's showing as switched off, here's what you can do:

Check the Ola app or website for your booking details, including the cab number. Contact Ola's customer support directly through the app or their customer support page. Provide them with the date and time of your booking, as well as any additional information you might have, such as your pick-up location and what information you have shared with the driver. Be patient, as it might take some time to retrieve the phone. Ola does have a team dedicated to resolving such issues.

Remember, while Ola is generally a reliable service, it's important to stay vigilant and keep your belongings secure during rides. If you encounter any issues, contacting Ola's support team is the best course of action.

Learn More:

Is Ola a 24-hour service? Rethinking India’s most popular cab service in 24 hours - a UX Case Study on OLA Cabs by Saatvik Agrawal (Bootcamp) Ola Electric Care - Customer Support and Assistance