The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) is preparing to launch ‘Chhava Ride’, a comprehensive ride-booking app that will allow passengers to book buses, autorickshaws, taxis, and e-buses on a single platform. Developed under the central and state government’s aggregator policy, this initiative aims to provide commuters with a safe, transparent, and affordable alternative to existing private ride-hailing platforms.

Announcing the development at a high-level meeting, Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik emphasized that MSRTC is best positioned to operate the platform, ensuring trusted services for passengers while generating a new revenue stream for the state transport body.

This launch comes shortly after Sarnaik’s criticism of private ride-hailing aggregators like Uber and Ola, accusing them of exploiting both drivers and commuters. In mid-July, the Maharashtra government initiated a crackdown on unlicensed bus aggregators, including Uber Shuttle, for operating without required permits.

The Chhava Ride app aligns with the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines (MVAG) 2025, which set targets for electric vehicle (EV) adoption among ride-hailing services. It also supports the Aggregator Cabs Policy 2025, which enforces stricter rules for drivers, including fines for unjustified ride cancellations that must be credited back to passengers.

The app is expected to compete with private players by offering affordable fares, transparent pricing, and reliable booking options, appealing to both urban and semi-urban commuters. It will also integrate electric buses (e-buses) into the booking system, supporting the state’s push toward sustainable mobility.

Notably, Mumbai’s auto unions have also been working toward digitalization, with the Seva Sarathi Autorickshaw Taxi & Transport Union (SSATTU) partnering with Metazen Labs to launch the Yatri Mitra app for autorickshaw bookings in Mumbai and Thane earlier this year.