Airport taxi rides – often a necessary evil for travellers. But what if you could slash those costs while making a new travel buddy? Enter GoPool, the innovative Indian startup that’s transforming airport commutes by turning them into budget-friendly carpool experiences.
The Spark Of An Idea
GoPool’s app acts as a matchmaker for travellers. By entering their airport and destination details, users can connect with others headed in the same direction. This allows them to share a regular cab or ride-hailing service like Ola or Uber, splitting the fare amongst themselves. It’s a win-win – travellers save money, and the environment benefits from fewer single-occupancy vehicles on the road.
The brainchild of Akash Jadhav, a tech-savvy traveller, GoPool stemmed from a chance encounter. On a flight to Bengaluru last year, Jadhav overheard a fellow passenger headed to Electronics City, a destination over 50 kilometres away from the airport, which also happened to be in his direction. This sparked an idea – could he create a service that facilitated carpooling specifically for airport journeys?
Research confirmed his hunch – many airports are far from city centres, leading to hefty cab charges for solo travellers.
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Sharing The Ride, Sharing The Cost
GoPool caters primarily to light travellers. Since riders share the journey, luggage space is naturally limited. However, for those who pack efficiently, GoPool offers a significantly cheaper alternative to traditional taxis. The app also prioritises safety and security.
Users can view potential co-travellers’ profiles, including photos and ratings from previous journeys. Additionally, GoPool plans to integrate with existing ride-hailing platforms in the future to provide better access to a wider public.
While carpooling isn’t a new concept, GoPool’s focus on airport trips fills a specific niche. For budget-conscious travellers or those on short business trips, GoPool offers a practical and cost-effective solution. The environmental benefits are another positive – carpooling reduces carbon emissions and traffic congestion, especially around busy airports.
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As GoPool continues to grow, it’s poised to revolutionise the way we approach airport commutes. So next time you’re booking a flight, consider checking out GoPool. You might just find yourself sharing a ride, saving money, and making a new friend along the way.
Cover Image Courtesy: @gopool_cherryco/ Instagram