Karnataka: HD Kumaraswamy to launch own cab app to help drivers

Bengaluru: After 'Taxi For Ride' announced by a few driver unions, JD(S) state president H.D. Kumaraswamy announced that he is soon launching, 'HDK' Cab app.

“Though the drivers with Ola and Uber protested, nothing came of it. I have decided to start HDK Cabs that will be profitable and beneficial to drivers as well. We have met with MNC Tech companies and the services will be announced around Ugadi,” Mr Kumaraswamy said.

There are multiple benefits for drivers attached to HDK Cabs, he said. “Yearly maintenance of cabs will be taken care of by the company. Water wash, oil change for every 10,000 km, Rs 20,000 yearly insurance and annual tax will be covered. New cars will also be given to those drivers who don't own one," he said.

“For the drivers, life insurance worth Rs 10 lakh will be given, along with medical insurance for their families. Drivers’ children will get free books, bags and stationery. Unlike 30% commission taken by Ola and Uber, we will take only 10 %,” he said. Housing facilities is also part of his plan, which has received the support of various driver unions. Mr Kumaraswamy said that he has requested Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy to interfere and solve the issue when the drivers protested at Town Hall.

“The Minister told me he would take care of it, but later said they cannot interfere between Ola and Uber on one side and drivers on the other. He cited the court stay as the reason. He showed his inability, so I decided to assist the drivers. The service is a driver's initiative, but I will take care of the technical and investment part,” he said.

He denied that this move was aimed at the 2018 state Assembly elections. “Humanitarian concern for the exploited drivers is what made me take up the responsibility,” he said.