Rapido eyes Goa expansion, lauds state’s bike taxi rules

Rapido eyes Goa expansion, lauds state’s bike taxi rules
| Photo Credit: Haider Ali Khan

Bike taxi and auto aggregator Rapido is gearing up to launch its services in Goa, actively reviewing the state’s newly introduced Transport Aggregator Guidelines, 2025. With operations already spanning over 215 cities and ambitious plans to reach 500 by year-end, the company sees significant potential in the tourism-driven state.

In an exclusive conversation with The Hindu, Pavan Guntupalli, Co-founder of Rapido, shared his insights on Goa’s regulatory framework and the company’s vision for the region. He lauded the state’s proactive approach, stating, “Goa’s move to formalise bike taxi operations is very progressive. Interestingly, Goa had the concept of bike taxis as early as 1991, making it one of the most forward-thinking states in this regard.” Mr. Guntupalli believes “the new aggregator guidelines will enable the digital transportation economy, which aligns well” with the company’s mission.

While Rapido is not yet operational in Goa, the company is poised for a swift rollout. “We are waiting for the formalisation of the guidelines. Once that happens, we will enter the market,” Mr. Guntupalli confirmed, adding, “While we don’t have a specific timeline yet, we are ready to launch as soon as the framework is finalised.”

He highlighted the strong existing preference for two-wheelers, noting, “For a population of 1.5 million, there are approximately 8 lakh bikes.”

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The Goa Transport Aggregator Guidelines, 2025, stipulate several requirements, including a branch office in Goa, local data storage (or on Indian servers) for three years, and a ₹10 lakh health insurance for drivers (extending to parents and children for female drivers). Aggregators are also barred from preventing drivers from joining multiple platforms and must settle payments to vehicle owners within 72 hours without deductions.

Regarding these regulations, such as the ₹5 lakh fee and data storage, Mr. Guntupalli emphasised a collaborative approach. “We see these regulations as part of a collaborative process. Rapido has completed over two billion rides in the past decade and operates in multiple states, so we bring a wealth of experience to the table.” On data specifically, he affirmed, “Rapido is an Indian company with deep local roots. We are fully aligned with storing data locally and ensuring compliance with government policies.”

Safety remains a cornerstone of Rapido’s operations. “For tourists unfamiliar with Goa’s roads, we offer features like real-time ride tracking, driver verification, and proactive alerts if something seems off during the ride,” he detailed. The company plans a comprehensive rollout, aiming “to provide transportation solutions not just in urban areas but also in smaller towns.”

Mr. Guntupalli is optimistic about existing taxi unions in the state. “Unlike 2013, when platforms like ours were new, today we have data-backed evidence showing that joining Rapido improves earnings by at least 30%,” he said. “Moreover, Rapido operates on a zero-commission model, which directly benefits captains.”

A key initiative for Goa will be “Rapido Pink,” a service by women captains for women riders. “Yes, we see great potential for Rapido Pink…Given the limited job opportunities for women in Goa, especially in tourism, Rapido Pink can create meaningful employment while ensuring safety and convenience for female riders,” Guntupalli highlighted, noting its success in cities like Chennai.

Differentiating itself from competitors, Rapido will lean on its “zero-commission model and focus on affordability, safety, and convenience,” coupled with its “extensive experience in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.”

As Goa moves towards finalising its guidelines, Rapido stands ready. “We are excited about the opportunity to contribute to Goa’s transportation ecosystem,” Guntupalli concluded. “Our goal is to collaborate with the government and ensure that the new policies benefit all stakeholders—tourists, locals, and captains alike.”