Rapido secures five-year cab licence in Karnataka, to operate till 2031

Rapido, India’s leading ride-hailing platform, has secured a five-year operating licence from the Karnataka State Transport Authority, enabling it to provide cab services across the state until August 2031. This marks a significant milestone for the company, which operates under the name Roppen Transportation Services Private Limited. The licence was granted under the Karnataka On-Demand Transportation Technology Aggregators Rules, 2016, ensuring that Rapido’s operations align with established regulatory frameworks. The approval comes after months of discussions between the company and the state authorities, during which Rapido demonstrated its commitment to adhering to local regulations and contributing to Karnataka’s urban mobility goals. With this licence, the company gains greater stability and predictability in its operations, which it claims will benefit both drivers and passengers. It also allows Rapido to continue expanding its services within the state’s legal boundaries. Currently, Rapido operates in 21 cities across Karnataka, serving more than 3.14 lakh drivers and over 2.04 crore registered users. According to the company, more than 69 lakh customers in the state have used the platform for cab rides. These figures highlight the growing reliance on digital mobility solutions among Karnataka residents, particularly in urban areas where traffic congestion and public transportation limitations often pose challenges. As part of its broader strategy, Rapido has been integrated into the Karnataka government’s Urban Mobility Mission. Through this initiative, the company will collaborate with state officials to address key issues such as commuter accessibility, urban travel patterns, technological integration, safety standards, and service reliability. This partnership underscores the government’s recognition of the role that private sector players can play in shaping sustainable urban transport systems. Pavan Guntupalli, co-founder of Rapido, emphasized the importance of clear and consistent regulation in fostering trust among all stakeholders. “Karnataka is our home state and one of our most important markets,” he stated. “The licence allows us to enhance our offerings while maintaining strict compliance with state guidelines.” He added that the company prioritizes safety, service quality, and economic opportunities for drivers, ensuring that its operations contribute positively to the local economy. Rapido’s network spans major metropolitan and regional centers, including Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mangaluru, Hubballi-Dharwad, Belagavi, Davangere, Shivamogga, Ballari, Kalaburagi, and Tumakuru. This extensive reach enables the company to cater to diverse commuting needs across different socio-economic groups. By leveraging technology, Rapido aims to improve efficiency and reduce wait times for passengers while providing flexible working opportunities for drivers. The licensing decision reflects a broader trend of regulatory clarity for ride-hailing companies operating in India. As states increasingly recognize the potential of digital mobility solutions, they are adopting more structured approaches to integrate these services into existing transport networks. For Rapido, the new licence represents not just operational security, but also a strategic advantage in strengthening its position as a trusted player in Karnataka’s evolving mobility landscape.