Rapido, the popular ride-hailing platform, is set to introduce taxi pooling services to Kempegowda International Airport, aiming to provide cost-effective shared mobility options. Aravind Sanka, co-founder of Rapido, announced this initiative during the EV & Future of Mobility session at the Bengaluru Tech Summit on Wednesday.
“Our goal is to make airport commutes more affordable. By allowing passengers to share a vehicle, one ride can accommodate multiple customers, significantly reducing costs,” Sanka stated. He explained that the concept leverages existing resources for optimal usage without the need for additional infrastructure.
Rapido’s auto pooling service has already gained traction in high-demand areas across Bengaluru. Sanka noted that shared rides are especially popular along common routes. “Despite challenges like insurance and regulatory hurdles, we’re committed to refining the system to benefit both passengers and captains,” he added.
The pricing mechanism for the new service will aim for a balance between affordability for customers and fair earnings for drivers. This approach, Sanka said, is critical for ensuring widespread adoption of shared rides.
Currently, airport travel costs range from ₹900 to ₹1,400 with traditional aggregators, while apps like Quick Ride offer carpooling for as low as ₹350. Rapido plans to position its services competitively, emphasizing transparent pricing with no surge fees.
However, challenges persist, including a lack of regulatory clarity in Karnataka. The state’s transport department has delayed a carpooling policy amidst pushback from autorickshaw unions, who claim shared rides threaten their earnings.
Read Also