Uber granted license to operate buses in Delhi

Uber, a leading ride-hailing app, has received an aggregator license from the Transport Department of the Government of Delhi to operate buses under the Delhi Premium Bus Scheme. This makes Delhi the first state to award such a license, and Uber the first aggregator to be granted this license under the scheme.

Customers can now pre-book seats on their preferred routes by selecting the ‘Uber Shuttle’ option on the Uber app. The official launch of Uber Shuttle, tailored for daily commuting, follows a successful pilot program in Delhi NCR and operational experience in Kolkata under an MoU with the West Bengal Government. Uber Shuttle aims to offer tech-optimised mobility solutions using private bus fleets, addressing road congestion and reducing carbon emissions by promoting shared rides.

Uber Shuttle buses, equipped with air conditioning, will operate on predefined routes connecting business districts with residential areas in Delhi. Commuters can pre-book seats up to a week in advance, track the live location and route of the bus, and view its expected time of arrival (ETA) through the Uber app. This service promises a seamless and convenient commuting experience with cashless payments and round-the-clock safety support, including access to a 24x7 Safety Line.

An official from the Transport Department of the Government of Delhi stated, "The Government of Delhi stays committed to improving public transport services and diversifying available transportation options to streamline commuting for Delhiites. We are pleased to extend an opportunity to Uber to utilize its global experience and technological prowess to contribute to an elevated commuting experience for the people of Delhi."

Amit Deshpande, Head of Uber Shuttle in India, said, "We are dedicated to building a business that caters to the mobility needs of every Indian, and buses are a pivotal addition to our existing product lineup. Following a successful pilot program, where we witnessed significant demand for buses, we are thrilled to officially introduce the convenience of Uber rides to buses in Delhi. Aligned with Uber's global sustainability objectives, Uber Shuttle will help put more people in one vehicle, and help ease traffic congestion and reduce carbon footprint. Through a new option for commuters and creating a new source of livelihood for drivers, we are confident that this initiative will prove to be a win-win for all.”