Hail a Paxi
After the success of transportation network companies such as Uber and Careem in Pakistan, entering the market now is PAXI (pink-taxi). Launched by PAXI Pakistan Private Limited, it is a taxi service that caters exclusively to women. The soft launch took place on Women’s Day (March 8) in Karachi, and services will officially begin on March 23, 2017.
According to Shaikh Muhammad Zahid, CEO and Co-Founder, Paxi Pakistan, the absence of an efficient transport system has always been a problem in the country, especially for women.
“PAXI has identified this niche and is exclusively offering Pink Taxis for women where they will be accompanied by skilled female drivers called ‘pilots’,” says Zahid.
PAXI claims to be the first registered company with all relevant authorities including the FBR, SECP and KMC. It offers clean, comfortable and air-conditioned taxis as well as accidental insurance coverage. The vehicles, they say, are equipped with fire extinguishers and first-aid medical kits for emergencies. People can book the service via an app, call centre, SMS or by hailing taxis on the road. Zahid says the prices are competitive. “The payment structure is calculated according to the distance and duration of the journey.”