Namma Yatri severs ties with ARDU over pricing disputes

Bengaluru, NT Bureau: Namma Yatri initially championed as an app by and for auto-rickshaw drivers under Bengaluru's Auto Rickshaw Drivers Union (ARDU), has severed ties with the union, citing disputes over pricing and promotions, Money Control reports.

The rift deepened when ARDU proposed a flat Rs 40 fare within a 2km radius, a proposition Namma Yatri rejected.

Despite ARDU's instrumental role in Namma Yatri's launch, the app's spokesperson asserted its union-agnostic stance, emphasising collaboration with all drivers for comprehensive mobility solutions.

ARDU's general secretary, D Rudramurthy, countered, alleging attempts to undermine their contributions.

Namma Yatri initiated as a driver-led digital cooperative, evolved into a corporate entity backed by the Foundation for Interoperability in Digital Economy and developed by Juspay.

Amidst debates on the app's trajectory, concerns arise over potential parallels with ridehailing giants and the impact on drivers' autonomy and earnings.