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

Rapido prepares to launch bike taxi services in Goa, aligning with state guidelines and emphasizing safety and collaboration.

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.”