InDrive, the popular ride-sharing platform, has officially launched its operations in Nepal on May 6, 2024, following successful registration. The company has announced that it will now charge a 10% commission per ride, including VAT and other applicable taxes.
The US-based ride-sharing application, inDrive, has officially launched its services in Nepal after operating unofficially for two years. The company announced its official entry into the Nepali market, where it has been present since April 2022.
With the official launch, inDrive has introduced a 10 percent commission on drivers for each ride booked through its platform. The ride-hailing giant, which boasts over 150 million downloads and operations in 47 countries globally, currently offers its services in Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan.
In the Kathmandu Valley, inDrive provides taxi, motorcycle, delivery, and intercity ride options to cater to diverse transportation needs. The company has entered the Nepali market through a 100 percent foreign direct investment route and is actively researching and exploring opportunities to expand its services to other cities in the country.
Pavit Nanda Anand, the Asia Pacific region communication lead for inDrive, expressed enthusiasm about the official launch, stating, “We are excited to announce our official operation in Nepal. inDrive provides a freedom of choice globally to the people. For us, the Nepali market is crucial, and we are confident that our service will bring innovation and create employment opportunities.”
Rita Pokharel, the director for inDrive’s Nepal operations, emphasized the significance of the official launch, saying, “The official starting of inDrive has commenced a new chapter in the ride-hailing industry of Nepal. We have partnered with IME for hassle-free and safe payment to all our users.”
With its official entry into the Nepali market, inDrive aims to leverage its global experience and technology to provide convenient and reliable ride-hailing services, while also contributing to employment generation in the country’s growing gig economy.
Key Highlights
- InDrive was previously operating in a grey area in Nepal since 2022, facing scrutiny and inconveniences for riders and drivers.
- The official registration brings legality to InDrive’s operations in Nepal.
- Riders will now have to share a 10% commission with the company, whereas previously they could keep all earnings.
- InDrive has partnered with IME Pay as a payment facilitator, allowing passengers to pay fares using the digital wallet.
- The platform’s unique Real-Time Deals (RTD) model allows passengers to quote their price for rides and receive counter-offers from nearby drivers.
- New safety updates include Live Ride Details Sharing, Save Our Souls (SOS) option, and Quick Support for unexpected situations.
- InDrive currently operates in 749 cities across 46 countries and aims to positively impact 1 billion people by 2030.
Expansion and Future Plans
- Initially available only in Kathmandu Valley, InDrive now offers city rides, city-to-city, freight, and courier delivery services in Kathmandu, Bharatpur, and Pokhara.
- The company plans further expansion following the registration milestone.
- Discussions are underway to introduce insurance for both drivers and passengers.
With the conducive environment for the ride-sharing industry in Nepal, InDrive’s official launch and registration could have a remarkable impact on the sector’s future growth in the country.
