Andhra Pradesh, Rapido launch driver-cum-guide service to boost tourism

Amaravati: The Andhra Pradesh government has partnered with bike taxi platform Rapido to roll out a new driver-cum-guide service aimed at improving travel convenience and enhancing the overall tourist experience.

Tourism minister K Durgesh said on Thursday that Rapido drivers with strong ratings will receive specialised training in December. The training will cover Andhra Pradesh’s history, culture, hospitality and safety guidelines. The service will first be launched in Vijayawada, Tirupati and Visakhapatnam.

The collaboration was formalised recently during the CII Partnership Summit in Visakhapatnam. “This joint initiative with Rapido will not only enrich visitor experience but also create additional income opportunities for cab and auto drivers,” Durgesh said in an official statement.

Tourists will be able to book autorickshaws, cabs and view route details directly through the Rapido app. The government will also set up co-branded assistance desks at airports, railway stations and bus stands.

Durgesh added that the project, implemented through a public-private partnership with technology support, is expected to become a model for tourist transport services nationwide.

(with inputs from agencies)