Roku: Zero Commission Auto/Taxi App Owned and Run by Drivers Union (Hyderabad)

On 6 December 2023, a significant milestone in the evolution of ride-hailing services was marked as the industry witnessed the soft launch of Roku, a visionary ride-hailing app, honoring Dr Ambedkar's legacy. Rohan Kulkarni, the son of a former auto driver, leverages his diverse expertise as an IIM Kozhikode MBA, lawyer, and former country manager at a London fintech firm, to steer the course of this groundbreaking initiative. As the nation readies itself to celebrate the spirit of unity and progress on January 26th, 2024, the stage is set for the final launch of Roku. This anticipated milestone promises to redefine the norms of the ride-hailing industry, offering a beacon of hope for drivers and commuters alike. Kulkarni's relentless dedication to social service led him to immerse himself within the community, deeply understanding the concerns of the youth, and engaging extensively with drivers. This interaction unveiled their struggles and aspirations, fueling the core mission of Roku."

Challenges Faced by Taxi/Auto Drivers:

1. Delayed Settlements: One prevalent issue is the delay in receiving payments, compelling drivers to opt for cash transactions over digital modes.

2. Lack of Pricing Autonomy: Drivers have little say in determining fares, exacerbating their financial strain with increasing fuel prices while the aggregators set rates that significantly undercut their earnings after commissions.

3. Transparency Concerns: There's a lack of transparency in the payment structure, leaving drivers in the dark about the actual fare and their rightful share.

4. Economic Viability of Assigned Rides: Accepting rides as dictated by Ola/Uber often leads to economic losses for drivers, making it unsustainable and unprofitable.

Addressing these longstanding issues head-on, Roku’s forthcoming venture unveils a transformative approach:

The Promise of the New Ride-Hailing App:

1. Empowering Drivers: The app puts the decision-making power back into the hands of the drivers. With a Zero percentage commission, it ensures that drivers receive their rightful earnings for their hard work.

2. Proposal on the lines of Ownership and Representation: An unprecedented move to offer 40% company ownership to drivers or the union, fostering a sense of ownership and accountability within the community.

3. Inclusivity and Equity: Additionally, 10% company ownership is extended to the youth involved, fostering a culture of inclusivity and shared success.

4. Government Collaboration: Proposal to set a precedent for collaboration, plans to involve the government with an approximate ownership of 25% indicate a commitment to creating a system that serves both drivers and society.

5. Creation of Auto/Taxi Drivers Union: An integral part of this initiative involves the creation of the largest Auto/Taxi Drivers Union, overseeing the smooth running of the app while prioritising the interests of the drivers as primary, ensuring their voices are heard and their concerns addressed.

Rohan Kulkarni's Transformative Vision: From Garbage Dumps to Golden Futures in Hyderabad’s Heartland

In a remarkable display of dedication to social upliftment, 27-year-old Rohan Kulkarni, a visionary leader, has embarked on a profound and multifaceted humanitarian endeavour. He quit a lucrative Country Manager role at a London firm and rejected a 3-crore salary offer by an international firm. In the last year alone, he has engaged in over 5000 interactions, specifically focusing on the youth. Amidst the sprawling boundaries of Hyderabad's largest garbage dump yard in Malkajgiri, Kulkarni is crafting a narrative of hope, resilience, and progress.

Adjacent to the city's biggest garbage yard lies a slum grappling with adversities beyond measure. The overpowering stench serves as an inescapable reminder of the challenging living conditions endured by its residents. However, Kulkarni refuses to let these circumstances define the future of this community.

His ambitious initiative involves the launch of an educational centre poised to launch quality education to over 150 underprivileged children by the end of December 2023, despite the daunting surroundings. Alongside this education, a medical center is set to commence post the Sankranti festival in January, offering crucial healthcare services to residents previously devoid of accessible medical aid.

Moreover, Kulkarni's vision extends beyond basic amenities. His holistic approach includes providing skill education through Sparkify.in portal and legal aid clinic, providing legal counsel to those in need, and a comprehensive security program aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of the area's inhabitants. Recognising the potential and talent among the youth, Kulkarni is fervently fostering entrepreneurship opportunities, encouraging skill development, and promoting sports activities to instill a sense of purpose and empowerment. Acknowledging the harsh realities of the region, especially during summers, Kulkarni has initiated the distribution of mineral water to combat the dire consequences of polluted groundwater and air pollution resulting from the neighboring dump yard. This multifaceted initiative is not merely an act of charity; it's a testament to Kulkarni's unwavering commitment to creating sustainable, positive change. It's a narrative of hope rising from the ashes of despair, symbolizing the transformative power of social responsibility and empathy.

Disclaimer: No Deccan Chronicle journalist was involved in creating this content. The group also takes no responsibility for this content.