Daijiworld Media Network
Bengaluru, Jul 13: In a move that could reshape the public transport sector in Karnataka, the Federation of Karnataka State Private Transport Associations, representing over 65 associations including 22 in Bengaluru, has decided to take matters into its own hands by launching a dedicated ride-hailing app for autos, taxis, and private buses.
The decision comes after repeated delays by the Karnataka government in fulfilling its promise to roll out a state-backed alternative to private aggregators like Ola, Uber, and Rapido.
“We waited long enough,” said federation president S Nataraj Sharma, expressing disappointment over the government’s inaction. “Despite repeated assurances and an announcement by Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy in July 2023 about launching an app by February 2024, nothing materialised. We realised there was no real intent.”
Sharma revealed that the federation has already begun talks with three to four private firms, and demo versions of the app have been reviewed. “Our app will be launched by October this year and will focus on protecting the interests of both drivers and passengers.”
App will cover autos, taxis and buses
The federation aims to integrate autos, taxis, and eventually private buses, similar to platforms like RedBus. The app will also have a ticketing feature, with flexible payment models. “We’re exploring options where drivers can either pay a fixed daily fee of Rs 10–30 or allow a minimal commission per ride, such as Rs 2 per km or 5% of the fare. Unlike private aggregators, we won’t engage in surge pricing,” Sharma assured.
The app’s goal is to ensure drivers receive direct payments and passengers are charged fair, government-approved rates.
‘Unfair blame fell on drivers’
Sharma criticised the fallout of the government’s bike taxi ban, saying it led to fare hikes by aggregators, which tarnished the image of auto drivers. “Drivers were unfairly penalised. We raised this with the transport department but got no response. So, we decided to act in the best interests of both drivers and commuters.”
He also highlighted that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had launched a cooperative ride-hailing initiative named ‘Sahkar’, hinting that the Centre acknowledged the need for alternatives to aggregator monopolies.
Not the first initiative, but hopes are high
Bengaluru has seen multiple attempts in the past to counter Ola and Uber. In 2022, the Auto Rickshaw Drivers Union (ARDU) partnered with Juspay to launch Namma Yatri, a zero-commission platform. It gained traction but faced internal splits and operational challenges.
Similarly, the Karnataka Rajya Chalakara Parishath collaborated with Agnibhu Technologies to launch the Nagara app, which continues to struggle with driver shortages and technical glitches.
Other attempts like Rook app by the Peace Auto Union and MetroMitra for metro connectivity have also faded out over time.
Despite past setbacks, Sharma is confident. “We represent around 1.8 lakh drivers across Karnataka. With technical support and some investor interest, this time we’re determined to make it work. Drivers themselves will promote the app and encourage passengers to use our platform.”
The federation’s upcoming app, if successful, could mark a turning point in Karnataka’s transport ecosystem, offering drivers autonomy and passengers a reliable, fair-priced alternative amid growing dissatisfaction with existing aggregator platforms.