Bharat Taxi operates as a cooperative platform offering auto-rickshaw, car, and bike taxi services through a mobile application similar to existing ride-hailing apps. The service is run by Sahakari Taxi Cooperative Ltd, chaired by Amul Managing Director Jayant Mehta, with technology support from Moving Tech Private Ltd, the firm behind Karnataka’s Namma Taxi.
A comparative assessment conducted during the pilot phase shows a consistent fare gap between Bharat Taxi and its private competitors. During peak hours—around 9 am, 7 pm, and 10 pm—the difference often exceeded ₹100 per ride. For example, a trip from Govindpuri Metro Station to New Delhi Railway Station cost ₹280 on Bharat Taxi, compared to ₹320 on Ola and ₹340 on Uber. From the INS area to Delhi Airport, Bharat Taxi charged ₹411, while Ola and Uber fares crossed ₹500. During non-peak hours, the difference narrowed to ₹5–₹20.
According to officials associated with the project, around 2.75 lakh users and 1.5 lakh drivers have registered on the Bharat Taxi app in Delhi so far, with over 1.1 lakh drivers already onboarded. Drivers say the cooperative model is a key attraction. Unlike private platforms that deduct 20–30 per cent as commission, Bharat Taxi charges a flat ₹30 per day, allowing drivers to retain nearly all their earnings.
Another distinguishing feature is driver ownership. Drivers are required to purchase at least one share in the cooperative, making them stakeholders rather than contract workers. Supporters say this model addresses long-standing concerns about algorithm-driven pricing and income instability in the gig economy.
The app is also integrated with Delhi Police systems, enabling quicker access to emergency assistance. However, challenges remain. Scaling operations nationwide will require onboarding large numbers of drivers, navigating state-specific regulations, and securing adequate funding. While cooperative backers have committed ₹80 crore, only ₹16 crore has been invested so far.
With India’s app-based taxi market estimated at over ₹5 lakh crore, Bharat Taxi’s entry is being closely watched as a potential disruptor that could reshape pricing, driver welfare, and competition in the sector.
