Ensuring drivers earn 100% of the fare — no commissions, no cuts, just fair rides
OdishaPlus Bureau
In a move to redefine daily commuting in Odisha, the Odisha Yatri app is emerging as a customer-first mobility platform built on the principles of open access and transparency. The Odisha Yatri app, launched in January 2025 by the Government of Odisha, is reimagining urban mobility with a strong focus on fairness, affordability, and transparency. The app is developed under an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT), Moving Tech, Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) and Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC).
Built on the Beckn Protocol and aligned with ONDC’s open mobility standards, the app stands apart from its commercial counterparts. It offers a zero-commission model, that means 100% of the fare goes directly to the driver, cutting out middlemen and platform fees. This not only makes rides more affordable for users, but also ensures better earnings for driver-partners, in today’s online ride economy.
According to data from the official Odisha Yatri website, the app has already recorded over 2.86 lakh trips, 18.65 lakh ride searches, and generated ₹4.05 crore in driver revenue, with more than 2.37 lakh downloads.
Currently operational in Cuttack and Bhubaneswar, Odisha Yatri offers a range of ride options including non-AC and AC cabs, mini and sedan models, and larger XL cabs. The app also include features, such as inter-city rides, rental options, scheduled bookings, and even accommodations for disability and pet-friendly vehicles, aiming to make travel more inclusive and convenient for all. While bike ride is not in service, we expect the bike ride option to be available soon in the future.
The app’s user interface is clean and easy to navigate, allowing riders to save frequently used addresses like home, work, or favorite locations for quicker bookings. Onboarding Drivers into the app is made quite simple through a straightforward KYC process. Unlike many private ride-hailing apps—where drivers often pay steep daily or monthly subscription fees (ranging from ₹138 per day to around ₹2000 per month, as shared by drivers themselves), Odisha Yatri follows a driver-first approach. To keep the app running smoothly while upholding its zero-commission promise, a modest subscription plan has been introduced. This fee helps cover essential operational costs such as servers, maps, and backend systems—while ensuring that drivers still receive 100% of their fare directly.
“The Odisha Yatri app is especially helpful for everyday commuters who rely on taxis and autos, particularly for crucial last-mile connectivity. Over 57% of our passengers are women, and we’ve integrated multiple safety features to ensure their peace of mind and a secure travel experience. From an emergency SOS button and real-time journey sharing to direct police alerts and in-app complaint mechanisms, every aspect of the app has been designed with passenger safety in mind” said Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary, Commerce and Transport Department, Government of Odisha.
There is even test drills option in the app to ensure every safety features is functioning before the ride begins. Also, there are plans to match women riders with women drivers, as well as add dashcam-equipped rides.
State Transport Commissioner, Amitabh Thakur has been instrumental in the development and strategic scaling of the app, ensuring it remains rooted in public interest and accessibility.
Most importantly, Odisha Yatri is not just another app, it’s part of a larger open mobility movement that encourages data transparency, rider trust, and community-led development. The app as well as website even allows users to check live stats, offering a look at real-time total rides completed, drivers earnings, and total searches.
Whether you’re a daily commuter or an occasional traveler, Odisha Yatri gives you a safe, affordable, and fair alternative to corporate ride apps. Download the app today from the Google Play Store or visit the official website odishayatri.in to get started.