Ola, Uber rival Namma Yatri launches in Mangalore

Namma Yatri, a Bengaluru-based mobility app that prioritizes driver empowerment, has commenced operations in Mangalore, Karnataka.

After a month-long trial, the app was officially launched at a ceremony inaugurated by UT Khader, Speaker of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, alongside transport department officials.

The service aims to enhance regional transportation accessibility and create livelihood opportunities for drivers, addressing the critical need for affordable and reliable mobility in the state.

Expansion backed by local support

Namma Yatri’s entry into Mangalore comes after notable success in other Karnataka cities such as Bengaluru, Mysore, Tumkur, and Kalaburagi.

The app has received strong grassroots support, completing 500 trips in November alone with over 300 drivers enrolled.

Naveen Kumar, a community ambassador for Namma Yatri, said, “With Namma Yatri, drivers feel genuinely empowered. The booking process is easy, customers get picked up right at their doorstep, and the fares are transparent, building trust with passengers. We’re earning more, and customers appreciate the lower costs and better service—a true win-win for Mangalore.”

The approach has also sparked interest in neighbouring towns like Udupi and Manipal, which are set to launch the app soon.

Empowering communities and drivers

UT Khader praised the initiative, stating, “Namma Yatri exemplifies how technology can democratize services. It not only improves daily commutes but also provides meaningful incomes to drivers.” 

Earlier this year, the app garnered success in Tumkur and Kalaburagi, with drivers completing over 280,000 trips and earning Rs 2 crore collectively.

Currently, Namma Yatri boasts a network of 2.3 lakh drivers and over 50 lakh customers, facilitating around 1.6 lakh trips daily.