redBus onboards ONDC to facilitate auto rickshaw, Metro bookings

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Online bus ticketing platform redBus on February 8 announced it has partnered with the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) to provide multi-modal transport booking services across various cities.

A technical collaboration with Juspay, which supports integration with ONDC APIs, will now enable users in Bengaluru, Delhi, Chennai, and Hyderabad to book auto-rickshaws through the redBus app.

Following the initial rollout in Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad, redBus plans to tie up with local apps to extend the service to other cities as well. Commenting on the same, the company said, "redBus aims to enhance the overall travel experience by streamlining the auto-rickshaw booking process and expanding options for auto users. The initial rollout will occur in Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad, with plans to extend the service to other cities in collaboration with local apps."

The ticketing platform said in a statement, "By integrating with the ONDC network, redBus now offers metro ticket booking facilities in Kochi and Chennai. Additionally, redBus has introduced auto rickshaw booking in Bengaluru, Delhi, Chennai, and Hyderabad, simplifying city navigation."

redBus users in Chennai and soon Kochi will be able to book metro tickets through the app. "This feature is expected to benefit the 2.6 lakh daily metro commuters in Chennai and the 90 thousand daily metro users in Kochi. The tech integration for metro ticket booking ensures a smooth and user-friendly experience for commuters, enhancing the overall efficiency of travel planning for bus users", it said.

Prakash Sangam, CEO of redBus, said: "ONDC is a multi-force enabler in India, and we are pleased to be working with them to provide user convenience while promoting a diverse range of choices."

Commenting on the collaboration, T Koshy, MD & CEO at ONDC, said "Our larger goal is to promote e-commerce adoption while simultaneously boosting the growth of startups and creating a conducive environment for businesses to grow. We believe that redBus joining the ONDC Network is a step further in this direction."