Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad commuters now have a new ride-hailing option as Bharat Taxi, India’s first cooperative-led, driver-owned cab service, has officially commenced operations. The platform guarantees fixed fares and pledges to eliminate surge pricing, a common complaint with existing app-based services, even during high demand periods like festivals or adverse weather.
Successful Trial Phase Concludes
The launch in Maharashtra follows a comprehensive trial phase. Initial runs began in Mumbai on May 25, 2026, followed by Pune on June 26, 2026. The service was formally inaugurated at Navi Mumbai International Airport on July 23, 2026, by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and other officials. According to Mohit Mitra, city head of Bharat Taxi Pune, the trial phase is complete, and the service is now ready for widespread use across Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad.
Driver-Owned, Zero-Commission Model
Bharat Taxi distinguishes itself with a unique cooperative structure, offering drivers co-ownership and charging zero commission, a stark contrast to many commission-based platforms. The service is managed by Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Ltd (STCL), a multi-state cooperative society, in collaboration with the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC). Prominent institutions like Amul and NABARD also support the initiative through their representation on its interim board. Approximately 35,000 drivers have already been onboarded under this model, with fares established in consultation with drivers and aligned with Regional Transport Office (RTO) norms.
Stable Fares with Minimal Peak-Hour Adjustments
Positioning itself as a direct competitor to services like Ola, Uber, and Rapido, Bharat Taxi aims to provide pricing stability. While fares largely remain constant throughout the day, a modest 10 percent increase is applied only during morning and evening peak hours (8:30-10:30 AM and 5:15-7:45 PM). Mitra stated, “The fares don’t fluctuate for those using the Bharat Taxi service. Only during morning and evening peak hours do the charges increase by 10 percent over the base fare.” The company has also set both ceiling and floor rates to protect both riders from arbitrary price hikes and drivers by ensuring minimum earnings.
Category-Wise Pricing
- Auto-rickshaws: ₹18 per km (non-peak), ₹20 per km (peak).
- Hatchbacks: ₹24 per km (non-peak), ₹26.4 per km (peak).
- Sedans: ₹25 per km (non-peak), ₹27.5 per km (peak).
- SUVs: ₹32 per km (non-peak), ₹35 per km (peak).
For intercity travel, fares from Pune to Mumbai are fixed at ₹21 per km for hatchbacks, ₹23 per km for sedans, and ₹30 per km for SUVs. These rates also account for driver waiting time and remain consistent even at night.
Future Expansion Plans
Bharat Taxi is also actively working to establish airport pickup services. Discussions are currently underway with airport officials to finalize booth and deposit arrangements, with operations expected to commence soon from the Aeromall.