Date : 12-04-2024
Namma Yatri, the zero-commission auto-hailing service, is making strides in Bengaluru by piloting taxi services. The official launch is anticipated next week, according to sources familiar with the matter, as reported by Moneycontrol. Here are the key details:
Types of Taxis Offered:
The Namma Yatri app in Bengaluru now provides two types of taxis – Eco, which is non-AC, and Comfy cabs, which are air-conditioned.
Testing Phase and Driver Onboarding:
The cab services are currently in the testing phase, with driver onboarding underway. More drivers are expected to join the platform soon, according to sources.
Impact on Driver Community:
The entry of Namma Yatri into the cab services sector, dominated by Ola and Uber, is anticipated to provide relief for drivers who have expressed concerns over decreasing incentives and earnings. Approximately 3,500 cab drivers have been onboarded on the platform so far, sources revealed.
Background and Expansion:
Namma Yatri was originally launched in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Tumakuru, and Kochi as the Yatri app. It was introduced in Kolkata as Yatri Saathi and recently expanded its services to Chennai. Additionally, Mana Yatri was launched in Hyderabad on February 29, offering both autorickshaw and cab services.
Subscription Model and Payment Plans:
The firm is expected to follow a zero-commission model for cab services, with a subscription feature. It offers subscription payment plans, including a “Daily Unlimited” plan for unlimited rides at Rs 25 per day and a “Daily Per Trip” plan charging drivers Rs 3.50 per trip for up to 10 trips daily.
Industry Response:
Following Namma Yatri’s introduction of a subscription model, competitors such as Ola, Uber, and Rapido have begun experimenting with similar features.
Corporate Restructuring:
The mobility business of Namma Yatri has been spun off into a separate entity named “Moving Tech Innovations Limited.”
Despite Namma Yatri’s silence on queries from Moneycontrol, users have reported successful cab bookings within Bengaluru through the app, indicating its operational readiness.
