Namma Yatri, emerging as a formidable contender against the dominant Ola–Uber ride-hailing duo, has hit two significant milestones since its inception in November 2022—amassing 5 million users and generating $50 million in driver earnings.

What Happened? Up to February 27, the platform witnessed 28 million trips, enriching drivers with $51.75 million across seven Indian cities including Bengaluru, Kolkata, Kochi, Mysore, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Delhi.

Primarily, the service offers cab rides in Kolkata, Kochi, and Chennai, while auto-rickshaw rides dominate in the remaining cities. The app boasts over 213,000 auto-rickshaw and cab drivers, demonstrating rapid growth, especially in Bengaluru which accounts for 92% of completed trips.

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Rising to the challenge: Backed by fintech innovator Juspay, Namma Yatri has notably optimized its operational costs, slashing the cost per ride by 96% from ₹219.5 to just ₹8.6. This cost-effective model allows drivers to operate on a subscription basis or pay a nominal fee per trip, fostering a zero-commission environment.

The platform’s success in Bengaluru contrasts with a slower uptake in Delhi, attributed to weather conditions and growing app awareness. Shan MS, Juspay’s Chief Growth Officer, highlights the strategic focus on auto-rickshaws due to the untapped digital potential within this segment.

Furthermore, the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) reported a significant 18% growth in transactions for January, with 3.5 million in mobility bookings. ONDC’s vision extends beyond ride-hailing, aiming for an all-encompassing travel app allowing commuters to manage metro tickets, smart card recharges, and last-mile bookings seamlessly. This initiative includes collaborations with metro operators nationwide, marking a step towards a unified, interoperable travel experience in India.

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