There are currently no carpooling services in Pakistan
Uber introduced the cab hailing service in Pakistan paving way for ride sharing solutions.
These carpooling services have not only made the commute cheaper, easy, convenient and comfortable but odourless to some extend as well. And while they are in major cities of Pakistan for now, we are quite certain they will spread to cities with a stable route infrastructure.
Read on to know the list of ride sharing solutions in Pakistan
Swvl
Swvl is a public commuting solution that offers cheap, easy and comfortable transport. You can use their services by downloading the application on your phone:
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=io.swvl.customer
iOS: https://apps.apple.com/ph/app/swvl/id1214486024
How Does it Work?
Swvl is a form of organized transport, ride sharing service that uses particular routes that leave and arrive at specific timings. Once you enter your location and destination, the app will show you all the routes and timings that would take you from your nearest bus stop and drop you off at the closest bus drop to your destination.
There can be various drop off points on a particular route and you can choose whichever that suits you best. It is important that you book your seats in advance for busy routes. For example, if you want to book for an 8:00 A.M. bus, it is ideal that you do it at least 6-8 hours before. The seat availability varies according to rush hours so you need to know if your time of commute is a busy period or not.
Fares
The service has a fare of Rs.100/- to Rs. 200/- depending upon rush hours and the number of commutes available on the route. However, Swvl regularly offers promo codes that you need to lookout for. Once you add that promo code, you can get a discount upto Rs.110/-. Customers are updated with promo codes through text messages or in app notifications.
How Do You Pay?
Swvl allows you to make on spot cash payments once your ride is complete. Before getting off at your destination, you are required to pay the fare to the bus driver. The app does not offer any other payment options for now.
Type of Vehicles
Swvl offers both coasters and coaches depending upon the availability and route. Once you choose your route, the app shows you a picture of the bus driver and the vehicle that would be arriving at your pickup spot.
Swvl has also introduced private busses that you can book for group travel or a trip with your family.
Airlift
Airlift is another daily pick and drop service that currently operates in Lahore and Karachi. They offer fixed fares regardless of their routes and all of their vehicles are air-conditioned which makes it a viable option for fast and reliable commute.
You can book your seat by downloading their app
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ai.experia.airlift
iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/airlift-bus-booking-app/id1464138065
How Does it Work?
The app basically connects passengers with private bus operators who travel across the major areas of Lahore and Karachi. The service offers fixed routes, timings and stops. Moreover, the company also uses a fixed pricing method. Once your seat is reserved, just head to your specified bus stop where the bus will pick you up on a specified time. Upon booking the ride, you get the license plate number and the color of the bus so you can identify your ride. The ride can be tracked as the app updates you on where the ride has reached prior to your stop.
The drivers of Airlift go through a stringent screening process. Their licenses and identity documents are thoroughly checked and verified and the rating system allows the company to keep a track of their performance. Customers can also provide feedback if they encounter any problem with either the vehicle or the driver.
Fares
Airlift charges you Rs.50/- per trip so it accumulates to Rs.100/- for a return ride. Similar to Swvl, the company recurrently offers promo codes that offer you rides for as low as Rs.40/-.
How Do You Pay?
You are required to deposit funds into an airlift bank account before you can use the service. The company does not have a cash policy so you cannot pay on the spot. You can also add a credit/debit card to your account or use easypaisa to transfer the funds.
Type of Vehicles
The company deals in buses and vans that are air conditioned and well maintained.
Roshni Rides
Roshni Rides is a carpooling service in Pakistan that focuses on providing commuting platform services at affordable rates. The service offers monthly subscription plans for commuters who travel on a daily basis. The aim of the company is to facilitate schools, businesses and individuals via carpooling. The company signs up contracts with corporate clients such as daraz, HBL etc. You can download the apps from the following links:
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.roshniride.rider
iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/roshni-rides/id1472128382
How Does it Work?
The first step is to create an account and sign in to the app. Once you select your pick and drop location, you are required to input the time and days on which you would be travelling. Then, you will have the option to choose from the available vehicles. Once you have selected the vehicle, the app would tell you about your route, the driver you would be travelling with and the amount that you have to pay.
The company employs a 4 point extensive vetting process for drivers to ensure the safety of all of their customers.
Fares
A little over PKR 8,000 for non-AC and somewhere below PKR 9,000 for AC enabled
How Do You Pay?
The monthly subscription has to be paid via online transfer or through a bank deposit into an account of the company at the start of each month. The following accounts can be used:
Banks
Bank Name – HBL: Bahadurabad Branch, Karachi. Account Number – 05267916830203
Bank Name – JS Bank: New Chali Road Branch, Karachi. Account Number – 0001181518
The subscriptions auto-renews each month and you would be billed accordingly unless you notify the company regarding the cancellation of your subscription.
Type of Vehicles
There are two types of vehicles available; classic and premium.
Classic vehicles usually have 3-4 people travelling on them whereas a minimum of 2 individuals are required to open a new route. These vehicles are non-AC and are cost effective.
The premium vehicles also allow 3-4 individuals to travel but these are bigger vehicles that ensure a comfortable trip. These are great if you choose to ride with comfort, regardless of the cost.
Have you used any other ride hailing service which is worth mentioning? Let us know in the comments below.
Hitchman is a very efficient office carpool app. It is a ridesharing app that helps you to share your daily office commute to save up to 80% on your commute costs. It is available on the play store and app store.
Only in ISB and your website doesn’t work.