Patna: Transport department is set to launch Bharat Taxi, India’s first cooperative taxi service in Bihar, by the end of Nov, providing passengers with a new app-based taxi booking platform and giving drivers an ownership stake in the service. The first phase will cover Patna, Gaya, Vaishali and Muzaffarpur. The customer app has been activated and testing has been completed, officials said.Preparations for the launch were reviewed at a meeting chaired by transport secretary Raj Kumar at Vishweshwaraiya Bhawan on Monday. Officials discussed vehicle and driver registration, permit compliance, the IT platform and promotional activities.Raj Kumar said the service would provide a new transport option for passengers and drivers while promoting transparency and technology-driven services in the taxi sector. He directed all departments concerned to complete the remaining preparations within the stipulated timeline.State transport commissioner Arif Ahsan said the service is expected to provide passengers with a safe and convenient travel option. He added that efforts were underway to bring more local auto and cab drivers onto the platform with the support of driver associations.According to Bharat Taxi CEO Col Himanshu, around 2,005 drivers in Bihar have already joined the platform. Under the cooperative model, drivers, known as sarathis, can become members, co-owners and shareholders of the cooperative, with representation on its management board.Unlike conventional ride-hailing platforms, Bharat Taxi aims to give drivers a stake in the business rather than limiting them to the role of service providers. The model is also designed to reduce dependence on per-ride commission deductions, he said.Passengers will be able to book taxis and autos through the app, access fare and vehicle information, and use safety-related features aimed at ensuring safer travel, including for women passengers.The meeting was attended by Patna Municipal Commissioner Yashpal Meena, DIG traffic Sushant Kumar Saroj, Patna DTO Upendra Pal, representatives of Bharat Taxi, the Bihar Motor Cab Drivers Union and the Patna Cab Drivers Union.
