Bengaluru-based firm launches operations, two more to arrive soon

People dependent on public transport to commute in the city can hereafter enjoy faster and affordable rides provided on a new class of vehicle, the two-wheeler.

Bike taxis, which have become popular in metros in recent times, have hit the city roads recently. While a company has already started operations two more are about to kickstart soon.

Bringing in the new mode of commercial transport to the city for the first time, Bengaluru-based startup Rapido launched its service on March 7, according to Rapido’s regional head Mr. Devanshu.

The concept of bike taxis is similar to that of cab aggregators like Ola, providing rides on a range of cars and autorickshaws in the city.

However, bike taxis have the advantage of providing quick commute for individuals who could shell out a little more than what they do for city bus or shared autorickshaw services.

Rapido engages captains, bike owners and riders, and trains them. People can use Rapido mobile application or website to book a ride. The fare is ₹3 per kilometre with a base fare of ₹15. Also, every user riding with the firm is insured for a cover of ₹50,000.

Employment for youth

The bike taxis also come as an employment opportunity for youth owning motorcycles.

Any person with proper background, a motorcycle and a licence to drive can tie up with the firm and offer rides in their spare time.

When introduced in the cities like Bengaluru about two years ago, bike taxis faced legal hurdles and were banned as there was no transport policy for commercial two-wheeler taxi. With the Central government framing draft rules, the bike taxis resumed.

“We have issued permissions for three bike taxi companies that have come forward to operate two-wheeler taxis in the city recently,” Deputy Transport Commissioner E. Meera Prasad told The Hindu.