Bihar to See Expansion of Ola, Uber, and Rapido Services Beyond Patna
Gaya: Following the successful implementation of taxi services in Patna, leading ride-hailing companies such as Ola, Uber, Ride Mithila Key, and Rapido are set to extend their services to other major cities in Bihar. Transport Secretary Sanjay Kumar Agarwal has directed representatives from these aggregator companies to initiate this expansion.
Agarwal announced that for the convenience of passengers, bike and taxi services will be introduced in the districts of Darbhanga, Bhagalpur, Purnia, Gaya, Muzaffarpur, Vaishali, Saran, Munger, Nalanda, Begusarai, Rohtas, Katihar, and Kishanganj. This rollout will occur in two phases, beginning with these 13 districts.
During a review meeting at IIM Bodh Gaya on Saturday, the Transport Secretary emphasized the importance of swiftly providing taxi facilities. He assured that the availability of these services would eliminate doubts for users and service providers alike, ensuring a secure and reliable transport option accessible via mobile phones.
In preparation for the service launch, a meeting chaired by Transport Secretary Agarwal included District Transport Officers and representatives from the taxi cab service providers. The Secretary instructed the district officers to convert the vehicles used for these services into camps and to ensure they meet fitness and permit requirements.
Agarwal highlighted that companies like Ola, Uber, Sawari Mithila Key, and Rapido will enhance passenger convenience and create employment opportunities. He asserted that these services would offer citizens safe, affordable, and convenient travel options, extending benefits already enjoyed in Patna to other cities.
The expansion will also include Gaya district, which holds significant importance for both national and international tourists. Attractions such as Vishnupada Temple, Mahabodhi Temple, and various Buddhist sites in Gaya attract a constant flow of visitors, and the availability of reliable transport services will greatly benefit tourism.
Online car rental services, offering taxi booking and corporate car rentals, are proving to be a safe and efficient mode of transport. Currently available in Patna, these services are critical for the convenience and safety of both local and foreign travelers, including single women.