Bike taxi service launched in city with introductory offer of Rs 19 for 3 km

Bengaluru-based Rapido Bike has launched its new service, which will be available from 6 am till midnight across various pockets of the city.  It offers commuters an alternative option to navigate through traffic snarls and reach their destination quickly.

Working on a cab aggregator model, a mobile app ‘Rapido’ will enable customers to book a ride. The firm has roped in over 20 drivers, who are called as captains.

The fare has been kept comparatively lesser, with a base fare of Rs 15 plus a distance charge of Rs 3 per kilometre. Currently, Rapido offers introductory rates of Rs 19 up to three kilometres.

A third-party service has been roped in to conduct background checks, verification of driving licence and bank accounts of drivers as part of the safety measures, Rapido said. Currently, the firm doesn’t have women drivers in its team. However, it is expected to be expanded with women soon.

“The drivers were given training before inducting them into the team. The captains are mandated to provide a helmet for pillion riders, whose feedback will be taken at the end of each ride. 

The defaulters will be penalised for not providing a helmet to the customers. Further, they will be removed form the service if more than three complaints are received on the same,” said Sharavana, Regional Manager of Rapido.

“Office-goers, who are looking for quick rides, are our main target. The service will be offered across the city with special focus on areas like OMR, Adyar and Central. We are hoping to carve a unique market for our service,” he said.

The firm is currently operating in Bangaluru, Mysore, Coimbatore, Tiruchy, Madurai, Hyderabad, Gurugram and 20 other cities across the country.