Namma Yatri, a pioneering mobility app based in Bengaluru that prioritizes driver empowerment, has officially launched its services in the coastal city of <a href="https://www.archyde.com/protests-intensify-in-karnataka-58-students-wearing-hijab-suspended-national-deshabhimani/" title="Protests intensify in Karnataka; 58 students wearing hijab suspended National | Deshabhimani”>Mangalore, Karnataka, aiming to transform local transport dynamics.
After an extensive month-long trial period, the app’s official launch was celebrated during a ceremony graced by UT Khader, the Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, alongside officials from the state transport department, highlighting the initiative’s governmental backing.
This innovative service seeks to not only enhance regional transportation accessibility but also to generate meaningful livelihood opportunities for local drivers, effectively addressing the urgent need for affordable and reliable mobility solutions within the state.
Expansion backed by local support
Namma Yatri’s expansion into Mangalore follows its notable success in other prominent Karnataka cities, including Bengaluru, Mysore, Tumkur, and Kalaburagi, where the platform has already established a robust presence.
The app has garnered remarkable grassroots support, having completed an impressive 500 trips in November alone, with more than 300 drivers actively enrolled, showcasing its rapid integration into the community.
Naveen Kumar, a community ambassador for Namma Yatri, enthusiastically remarked, “With Namma Yatri, drivers feel genuinely empowered. The booking process is simple, customers enjoy the convenience of being picked up right at their doorstep, and the transparent fare structure fosters trust among passengers. We’re earning more, and customers appreciate the lower costs and better service—a true win-win for Mangalore.”
This positive reception has also ignited interest in neighboring towns, including Udupi and Manipal, where plans are underway for the imminent launch of the Namma Yatri app.
Empowering communities and drivers
UT Khader commended the initiative, asserting, “Namma Yatri exemplifies how technology can democratize services. It not only improves daily commutes but also provides meaningful incomes to drivers, empowering them and their families.”
Earlier this year, the app achieved remarkable success in Tumkur and Kalaburagi, where drivers collectively completed over 280,000 trips, amassing an impressive total of Rs 2 crore in earnings, thereby significantly enhancing their livelihoods.
Currently, Namma Yatri boasts an expansive network of 2.3 lakh drivers and more than 50 lakh customers, facilitating approximately 1.6 lakh trips each day, thereby solidifying its role as a crucial player in Karnataka’s transportation ecosystem.
**Interview with a Namma Yatri Representative**
**Interview with a Namma Yatri Representative**
*Host*: Welcome to today’s segment. Joining us is Mr. Raghav Singh, the Regional Operations Manager of Namma Yatri. Thank you for being here, Mr. Singh.
*Mr. Singh*: Thank you for having me!
*Host*: Namma Yatri has officially launched its services in Mangalore after a successful trial period. Can you tell us about some of the key features of the app that set it apart from others?
*Mr. Singh*: Absolutely! Namma Yatri is built on the core principle of empowering drivers. Unlike other mobility apps, we focus on providing fair earnings and flexible working conditions for our drivers, which is crucial for their livelihood. We also prioritize local engagement, ensuring that our drivers are from the communities they serve. This creates a more personal and reliable transport experience for our users.
*Host*: That’s a great approach! The launch was graced by notable figures including UT Khader, Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly. How significant is this support from local government officials?
*Mr. Singh*: Government backing is incredibly important for our initiative. It not only legitimizes our efforts but also fosters trust within the community. The presence of local leaders like Mr. Khader indicates a strong alliance between our objectives and governmental support, which can help us navigate challenges and enhance regional transport infrastructure more effectively.
*Host*: You mentioned that Namma Yatri aims to enhance transportation accessibility. How do you plan to achieve that in Mangalore specifically?
*Mr. Singh*: We understand the unique challenges that Mangalore faces, especially with its tourist attractions and busy coastal routes. Our strategy involves deploying a sufficient number of drivers who are well-versed in these areas. Additionally, we intend to collaborate with local businesses to create a system that addresses the daily commuting needs of residents while providing tourists with reliable transfer options.
*Host*: That sounds promising! Livelihood opportunities for local drivers are a significant part of your mission. How does Namma Yatri plan to support and train these drivers?
*Mr. Singh*: We have a comprehensive driver onboarding process that includes training sessions focused on customer service, safe driving practices, and app navigation. In addition to financial incentives, we also provide opportunities for drivers to grow and connect with the community, which is essential for building a loyal and motivated workforce.
*Host*: It sounds like Namma Yatri is poised to make a meaningful impact in Mangalore. Is there anything else you’d like to share with our audience regarding this expansion?
*Mr. Singh*: Yes, we are excited to invite the residents of Mangalore to download the Namma Yatri app and experience our services firsthand. We believe that together, we can transform transportation in the region and create a sustainable model that benefits everyone involved.
*Host*: Thank you, Mr. Singh, for your insights. We look forward to seeing how Namma Yatri develops in Mangalore!
*Mr. Singh*: Thank you for having me!
