Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Government-Backed Bharat Taxi Begins Rollout as Driver-Owned Alternative to Ola and Uber

The cooperative platform is opening through its app with fixed, upfront fares and is preparing a phased expansion beyond Delhi.

Overview

  • The Bharat Taxi app is available on Android and iOS, offering bookings with fares shown upfront.
  • Run by Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Limited, the service follows a zero‑commission model with profits redistributed to driver‑members.
  • Bharat Taxi says it will not use surge pricing, with sample rates cited at Rs 30 for the first 4 km, Rs 23 per km from 4–12 km, and Rs 18 per km beyond.
  • Safety features include GPS tracking, an agreement with Delhi Police for added security, and identity integrations through DigiLocker and UMANG.
  • Officials report a Delhi pilot since December 2, 2024 with about 5,500 daily rides and driver sign‑ups reported between 1.2 and 1.4 lakh, while PTI cites a formal launch by January‑end even as some outlets describe a January 1 debut.