Rapido, the popular ride-hailing platform, is set to introduce a shared taxi service at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport (KIA), providing a more affordable and sustainable travel option for passengers. Building on the success of its auto-rickshaw pooling service, which was launched earlier, the company aims to expand the shared service concept to airport taxis, allowing passengers to share rides and split the cost.
According to Rapido co-founder the initiative will go live early next year, marking a significant step in the company’s strategy to offer more eco-friendly and cost-effective transportation alternatives. “One vehicle can serve more than two customers. We have already launched auto pooling in Bengaluru, and we are soon launching an airport pooling service,” he revealed during the EV & Future of Mobility session at the Bengaluru Tech Summit 2024. Currently, airport rides are often a costly affair for passengers, with private taxis charging upwards of thousands of rupees for a single trip. Rapido’s new shared taxi service aims to reduce these costs, enabling multiple passengers to share the ride and split the fare. This service is expected to make travel to and from the airport more affordable, especially for those who are looking for budget-friendly options without compromising on convenience.
The human angle behind this initiative is clear: for many passengers, the high cost of airport transfers can be a deterrent, especially for frequent travellers. Rapido’s shared taxis will ease this burden, offering an alternative that provides both financial relief and convenience. Additionally, the service is expected to contribute to reducing congestion at the airport, as more passengers will be able to use a single vehicle for their commute, thus enhancing the overall travel experience. Rapido’s initiative also aligns with the growing push for sustainability in urban transport. By promoting ride-sharing, the company helps reduce the number of vehicles on the road, which can lower emissions and reduce traffic congestion. The move comes at a time when many cities, including Bengaluru, are grappling with pollution and traffic woes. By offering a more sustainable travel solution, Rapido is contributing to the ongoing efforts to make urban mobility cleaner and more efficient.
As the service expands, the potential for widespread adoption of shared taxis at airports could reshape how people think about airport commutes. The company is also exploring other shared transport options, which could further change the dynamics of urban transportation. While the idea is promising, challenges remain, particularly regarding user trust and the logistics of coordinating multiple passengers in one vehicle. However, with the growing acceptance of shared mobility solutions, Rapido is positioning itself at the forefront of the changing landscape of urban transport.
