The Assam government has inaugurated ‘Baayu,’ an app-based electric bike taxi service, marking a groundbreaking sustainable mobility initiative by the state-run Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC). Assam minister of transport Parimal Suklabaidya officially launched the service in Guwahati on January 7.
This event marked the unveiling of India’s pioneering app-based 100% electric and decentralized bike taxi services.
‘Baayu,’ an app-based electric bike taxi service developed by ASTC in collaboration with Assam-based startup Bikozee Ecotech, is introducing India’s first 100% electric and decentralized bike taxi services. This initiative is set to usher in a new era of eco-friendly transportation solutions integrated with Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC).
The initiative begins with zero-emission bike taxi and delivery services. ‘Baayu’ aims to create 5,000 livelihood opportunities for driver partners in Assam by providing electric vehicles, a technology platform, insurance, training, skill development, and operating licenses in accordance with Assam Aggregator rules 2022. This groundbreaking step is expected to save an impressive 29,000 tons of carbon emissions annually, resulting in a remarkable annual fuel cost savings of Rs 73 crore, as stated in a press release.
In line with NITI Aayog‘s Shoonya Zero Pollution Mobility campaign, ‘Baayu – Clean Air Movement’ by ASTC aims to enhance air quality and public health in cities by deploying electric vehicles in the transport and logistics sectors.
During the ceremonial event, the Assam transport minister Parimal Suklabaidya extended his best wishes to the entire team and urged bike riders to strictly adhere to all road safety norms while commuting on roads and carrying passengers.
