Mumbai: Get ready for a game-changer in India’s ride-hailing scene. Union Minister Amit Shah will launch Bharat Taxi app tomorrow, introducing the country’s first cooperative ride service. Targeting Uber, Ola, and Rapido’s dominance, it promises lower fares and empowered drivers.
Operated under Sahkar Taxi Cooperative by the Cooperation Ministry, the app runs on a revolutionary zero-commission basis initially. Drivers receive every paisa from rides, free from platform cuts. The ministry hails this as a shield against ‘exploitative’ practices in existing apps.
Fare slabs are competitively priced: Rs 30/km up to 4 km, dropping to Rs 23/km for 4-12 km, and Rs 18/km thereafter. Public transport linkage, including metros, enhances user convenience. No routine surge pricing—only situational dynamic rates.
Post-launch, a 20% fee kicks in, looped back to drivers as bonuses. Momentum builds rapidly: 150+ female drivers onboard, 40k-45k daily registrations. Over 4 lakh users already, ranking high on app stores.
Robust safety: Notify emergency contacts, call safety teams, activate sirens—all in-app. Simple onboarding with basic info. Airport dedicated zones and broader expansions loom large.
Bharat Taxi isn’t just an app; it’s a movement towards equitable mobility. As cooperatives gain ground, expect ripples across sectors, offering commuters reliable, budget-friendly options while uplifting driver livelihoods.