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Two-wheeler aggregator platform Rapido has launched cab services in Bengaluru, days after it rolled out them in Hyderabad. Rapido, which started with autorickshaw services in 2021, now offers aggregator services in motorbikes, autorickshaws and cabs amid a legal battle in the Karnataka High Court.
While transport department officials confirmed that Rapido has applied for a licence to operate cab services, the app appears to have started accepting bookings even before getting one. When indianexpress.com booked rides on the app on two occasions, the platform accepted the bookings by assigning “captains” for the rides.
As per the terms and conditions laid down by the aggregator app, it will impose “surge charges” during heavy traffic and bad weather conditions. Surge pricing has been one of the highly contentious aspects challenged by the Karnataka government in the high court, citing violation of Karnataka On-demand Transportation Technology Aggregators Rules 2016.
Hemanth Kumar, additional commissioner of the transport department, said, “The aggregator app has applied for a licence and we will issue it only after they comply with all the requirements of Karnataka’s aggregator rules. This includes installation of a panic button, control room and GPS tracking software, among other measures. It will ideally take one or two months to issue the licence.”
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When indianexpress.com booked rides on the app on two occasions, the platform accepted the bookings by assigning “captains” for the rides. (Screenshot)
He added, “The platform cannot introduce surge pricing as it is against the aggregator rules. Neither can it accept bookings and offer rides without obtaining a licence. If anyone registers a complaint in this regard, we will take action.”
Following the launch of cab services in Hyderabad, Rapido’s spokesperson said, “At Rapido, we’re thrilled to share that our test run in Hyderabad for Rapido Cabs is off to a fantastic start. The city’s vibrant market has warmly embraced us, and the positive response is truly heartening. As we navigate our path forward, we are committed to keeping you closely informed about our progress and eagerly anticipate bringing our innovative services to other cities.”
On the cab services in Bengaluru, however, Rapido did not respond to questions sent by indianexpress.com.
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