Karnataka govt planning Ola, Ober-type cab aggrigator app for autos and taxis

The Karnataka government is planning to launch its own mobile app to aggregate autorickshaws and taxis on the lines of Ola and Uber. As per a ToI report, the announcement was made by Transport Minister R Ramalinga Reddy following a series of meetings with representatives from various transportation sectors, including autos, taxis, contract and stage carriage vehicle owners, tourist operators, and private bus operators.

Minister Reddy also revealed plans to set up auto stands at all metro stations in partnership with Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (BMRCL) in addition to the new app. The relocation is intended to improve accessibility and convenience for both commuters and cars.

The representatives voiced concerns about existing aggregators charging excessive commissions on rides, leading to drivers receiving inadequate revenue. "They presented a receipt where an aggregator charged Rs 800 for a trip, but the driver received only Rs 400. The aggregators, who merely provide a platform and do not invest in vehicles, prompted the need for an app that safeguards the interests of drivers and the public," the minister said.


Minister Reddy stated, "I do not see any problems with the government launching an app. We will have a clear plan in a week."

Additionally, taxi and auto unions have urged the government to ban bike taxi services offered by Rapido and Uber.

Last year, the Auto Rickshaw Drivers Union (ARDU) in Bengaluru launched an app called Namma Yatri, which quickly garnered popularity among the city's auto commuters. The app was launched to compete with apps such as Ola, Uber, and Rapido.

The Kerala government developed the 'Kerala Savari' app in 2022 as an alternative to Ola and Uber, but it failed to gain traction.