Uber adopts Pooch-O model, scraps commission for taxis

Uber, the US-based online taxi-hailing company, has tweaked its working model to operate in Delhi, till the time the app-based cab operator secures permit from the transport department.

Uber, the US-based online taxi-hailing company, has tweaked its working model to operate in Delhi, till the time the app-based cab operator secures permit from the transport department.

An Uber official said the company has adopted the ‘Pooch-O’ model — which is approved and endorsed by the transport department — since it re-launched its services last week.

“This allows Uber to legally operate, enabling safe, reliable rides to an under-served public, while working out the details of a long-term solution with the government,” Uber said.

Pooch-O is a mobile app run by Delhi Integrated Multi-modal Transit System — an equal equity joint venture between the Delhi Government and IDFC — to facilitate riders to locate and hire auto-rickshaws in the vicinity.

Uber along with other companies, such as Ola and Taxi for Sure, was banned in December last following the alleged rape of a 25-year-old by one of Uber driver.

no commission

Meanwhile, Reuters reported on Tuesday, that Uber had decided not to take any commission from its drivers in Delhi until uncertainty over how it can operate in the city is cleared up.

Uber used to charge a commission of 20 percent from its drivers in New Delhi and started offering additional incentives, including a 250-rupee bonus per trip, after resuming operations last week.w.