Lucknow is poised to become the next testing ground for an alternative model in India's rapidly expanding ride-hailing economy. The cooperative department is preparing for the formal rollout of the Bharat Taxi platform in the state capital later this month.
Challenging the Status Quo
Positioned as a direct competitor to online cab services, the initiative is already operational in Delhi and Ahmedabad. It aims to reshape urban mobility through cooperative ownership and regulated pricing. Unlike existing platforms that charge drivers a commission on each ride, Bharat Taxi introduces a fixed-fee model. Drivers, referred to as 'Saarthis', will pay a predetermined amount to the platform, insulating them from fluctuating commission rates and potentially improving income predictability.
Controlled Fares and Consumer Benefits
Equally significant is the platform's commitment to controlled fares, even during peak hours. This is a direct response to one of the most persistent consumer complaints against app-based cab services: surge pricing. If implemented effectively, this could change pricing dynamics in Lucknow's urban transport market.
Yogesh Kumar, Commissioner of the cooperative department, stated that at least five departments would soon sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bharat Taxi before its formal rollout. These departments include Railways, Metro, Airport Authority of India, Transportation, and Uttar Pradesh Police. “The idea is to enforce utmost safety of the passengers using the platform and we hope to get the best results,” he told TOI.
Registration and Support
Over 20,000 Saarthis have already registered, and more than 10,000 app downloads have been reported. Bharat Taxi, also known as 'Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Limited', is a multi-state cooperative society of Saarthis built on the principles of fair earnings, shared ownership, and dignified livelihoods for drivers. The platform is supported by leading national cooperative institutions, including the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC), Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO), Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) (popularly known as Amul), Krishak Bharati Cooperative Limited (KRIBHCO), National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED), National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), and National Cooperative Exports Limited (NCEL).
This cooperative model aims to provide a sustainable alternative to existing ride-hailing platforms, benefiting both drivers and passengers through fair pricing and shared ownership.
