Bengaluru: Rapido, the two-wheeler aggregator platform, has extended its services to include cabs in Bengaluru, following a recent introduction in Hyderabad. The platform, originally known for its auto-rickshaw services, now encompasses motorbikes, auto-rickshaws, and cabs, despite an ongoing legal dispute in the Karnataka High Court.
While confirmation from transport department officials indicates that Rapido has submitted a license application for cab services, concerns arise as the app seems to be accepting bookings even before the official license approval. Instances of successful bookings were observed, with the platform assigning “captains” for the rides.
In accordance with the app’s terms and conditions, surge charges may be imposed during periods of heavy traffic or adverse weather conditions. Surge pricing has become a contentious issue, prompting the Karnataka government to challenge it in the high court, citing violations of the Karnataka On-demand Transportation Technology Aggregators Rules 2016.
Hemanth Kumar, Additional Commissioner of the Transport Department, explained, “The aggregator app has applied for a license, 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 license.”
As Rapido diversifies its services and navigates legal challenges, it remains to be seen how the platform will address regulatory compliance and surge pricing concerns in the evolving transportation landscape.
