Kozhikode: Local online taxis have started challenging the might of the MNCs that are charging a hefty commission of 26 percent annually from each cab driver.
Three native online cab services that are entering the field will function on the GPS-enabled app. The Calicut Airport Taxi Drivers' Development and Cooperative Association has started an online service, 'QBR.' "We are only levying six percent commission. Also, the tariff rate for passenger is Rs 30 per km which is the government rate," said QBR managing director R. Jose.
PIU, the venture of Kochi- based Mastermind Technologies Private Ltd, will be launched in the state in the second week of May. "There is no commission for PIU, but only a nominal subscription fee. It is beneficial to all stakeholders like driver and the rider," said Ashok George Jacob, co-founder of MMT. According to him, cabs enrolled under MNC companies have to pay back Rs 2,34,000 per year whereas it is only Rs 19,200 under PIU. Interestingly, PIU covers not only taxis but also autorickshaws.
The third venture is by the Drivers' Cooperative Society, which is the all- Kerala union of taxi cab drivers.
It will be rolled out as meter taxi and call taxi service initially and as online taxi later. "As of now, there are 600 drivers under the society. We have to make it 1,000 and collect money towards launching an app," said one of the office-bearers. This online cab service will hit the road in June.
