MSRTC To Launch 'Chhava Ride': Maharashtra’s First Govt Ride-Hailing App To Challenge Private Cab Monopolies And Empower Local Drivers

Mumbai: In a significant move to revolutionize public transportation and curb private sector dominance, the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) is set to launch 'Chhava Ride', the state’s first government-approved ride-hailing app.

The announcement was made on Tuesday by Maharashtra Transport Minister and MSRTC Chairman Pratap Sarnaik during a high-level meeting at Mantralaya to finalize the draft of the state's Aggregator Policy.

The initiative aligns with both central and state government guidelines and seeks to ensure safe, affordable, and fair travel for commuters while providing sustainable livelihood opportunities for local drivers.

The meeting was attended by key stakeholders, including MLA Praveen Darekar, Additional Chief Secretary (Transport) Sanjay Sethi, Transport Commissioner Vivek Bhimanwar, and MSRTC Vice Chairman and Managing Director Dr. Madhav Kusekar, among others.

Breaking Private Monopolies

Speaking at the meeting, Minister Sarnaik highlighted the exploitative practices of many private ride-hailing platforms, which often underpay drivers and overcharge customers.

“‘Chhava Ride’ will be a people-centric, transparent, and technology-driven alternative that benefits both commuters and transport workers,” he said.

The app will integrate multiple modes of transport—including buses, taxis, auto-rickshaws, and electric vehicles—under one digital platform, leveraging MSRTC’s vast infrastructure and workforce. Officials said the app will be managed directly by MSRTC in coordination with the state’s Transport Department.

Sarnaik emphasized that the venture would not only boost public convenience but also open up new revenue streams for MSRTC and generate employment for Marathi youth.

'Chhava Ride' Gets the Green Light

According to Sarnaik, several names were considered for the app—including Jai Maharashtra, Maha-Ride, Maha-Yatri, and Maha-Go—before stakeholders reached a consensus on 'Chhava Ride', inspired by the valiant legacy of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. The name now awaits final approval from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar.

Financial Support for Local Entrepreneurs

MLA Praveen Darekar announced that the Mumbai Bank will provide loans at a 10% interest rate to unemployed Marathi youth interested in joining the platform as drivers or vehicle owners.

Additionally, an 11% interest subsidy will be offered through agencies like the Annasaheb Economic Development Corporation, Denotified Nomadic Tribes Corporation, OBC Corporation, and MSDC, making the loans effectively interest-free.

“This initiative is not just about launching an app—it’s about creating a system where local youth can become entrepreneurs in the transport sector,” Darekar stated.

Transport department officials confirmed that the app’s operational framework is in its final stages and is being tailored to match the central government's aggregator guidelines. The policy will include strict provisions for safety, pricing, digital payments, and grievance redressal, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Minister Sarnaik concluded by stating that MSRTC’s credibility and statewide network would serve as a strong foundation for the app’s success. “This isn’t just a transport initiative—it’s a social and economic movement aimed at redefining mobility in Maharashtra.”

When asked about the launch date, an official from the state transport department said the launch will be announced once final approvals are secured. “The app is expected to debut across major cities including Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, and Nashik, before expanding statewide,” he said.

“With this bold step, Maharashtra becomes one of the first states in India to directly challenge the dominance of private ride-hailing giants by putting public welfare and regional development at the core of mobility services,” the official added.