New Delhi, Jan 5 – Bharat Taxi, a new cab-hailing app backed by the government, is making waves in India just days after its launch. Users are quickly signing up, putting it in fierce competition with established players like Ola and Uber.
Supported by the Ministry of Cooperation, Bharat Taxi has seen about 40,000 to 45,000 new registrations daily over the past few days. The app has already welcomed over four lakh users, as shared by the Ministry on social media.
Currently, it ranks ninth on the Google Play Store and thirteenth on Apple’s App Store, while its driver-focused version sits at number 20 on the Play Store. This rapid growth aligns with the government’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative, aiming for a self-reliant India.
Bharat Taxi promotes itself as a cooperative alternative, focusing on transparency and safety. The app features police-verified drivers, ensuring a secure ride for passengers. Available on both Android and iOS, early feedback suggests that it is carving out a niche in India’s competitive ride-hailing market.
Users appreciate the app’s clean interface, which allows for easy ride booking. The platform also offers services like metro ticket purchases and cab rentals for up to 12 hours. Key safety features include options to contact emergency services, notify emergency contacts, and even activate a siren.
However, there are some areas needing improvement. Users have noticed that fares aren’t always cheaper than those on other platforms. Some inconsistencies, such as identical pricing for AC and non-AC rides, indicate that the app still has room to evolve. The streamlined sign-up process only requires a mobile number, name, and email, but overall, it feels like work is still underway.
What stands out is Bharat Taxi’s driver-centric model: it promises drivers won’t pay commission, allowing them to keep all fare earnings. There are future plans for dedicated pickup and drop-off zones at airports, mimicking features already used by competing services.
In the context of ride-hailing’s rapid evolution in India, the initial excitement around Bharat Taxi reflects a typical shift as new players emerge to disrupt established norms. The ride-hailing market is projected to reach $30 billion by 2030, presenting significant growth opportunities.
Experts believe that fostering a cooperative model may encourage better driver satisfaction and retention, aspects crucial for service quality. Users will have to see if Bharat Taxi can maintain momentum and improve gaps in service.
Bharat Taxi’s promise of a driver-first approach could reshape the ride-hailing landscape, but only time will tell how well it stands up to scrutiny as its user base grows.
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