New govt-backed Bharat Taxi to launch in Kolkata soon; commuters will get stable rides

Kolkata residents struggling with soaring app-cab fares are set to get major relief as the government-backed cooperative app-cab service, Bharat Taxi, expands its operations. Officially launched on Saturday, June 27, across 14 major cities in Gujarat, Union Home Minister Amit Shah to soon roll out in major urban centers. Over the next two years, it aims to cover more than 500 cities, including Mumbai, Pune, Lucknow, Chandigarh, Jaipur, and Kolkata.

Following its successful expansion roadmap, Kolkata is expected to witness the launch of Bharat Taxi within this calendar year. The platform functions as India's first cooperative-run digital mobility service, built upon a unique framework supported by the Central Government and major national cooperative societies.

The primary differentiator of Bharat Taxi is its zero-commission model, designed to protect drivers from hefty aggregators' deductions. Under this framework, the entire fare earned from a trip goes directly to the driver, eliminating middleman fees. This operational cost-efficiency translates directly into significantly lower and more stable ride fares for regular commuters compared to private private aggregators.

Furthermore, the model transforms traditional drivers into 'Sarathis' or equal stakeholders. By purchasing shares for just 100 rupees, over seven lakh drivers nationwide have already transitioned into co-owners of the platform. Beyond traditional cabs, the platform will integrate auto-rickshaws and bike-taxi options to offer comprehensive, budget-friendly urban transit solutions.