Sindh Government to Integrate All Ride-Hailing Services in Unified System in Karachi

In a groundbreaking move aimed at improving urban transportation and enhancing commuter safety, the Sindh government has announced plans to integrate all ride-hailing services into a unified regulatory and operational system in Karachi. The initiative, part of a broader digital mobility framework, seeks to bring companies such as Uber, Careem, InDrive, and various local platforms under a single digital monitoring and management system.

This decision comes amid growing concerns over unregulated pricing, passenger safety, and traffic congestion caused by the unchecked growth of ride-hailing services in the metropolitan city. With over 20 million residents and a rapidly growing urban population, Karachi’s transportation challenges have become increasingly complex. The unified system is expected to streamline operations, improve service quality, and bring greater accountability to the ride-hailing sector.

Aiming for Standardization and Transparency

According to Sindh’s Transport Minister, the integration will be carried out in phases and overseen by a newly established Urban Transport Monitoring Authority. This body will work closely with ride-hailing companies to develop standardized fare structures, service quality benchmarks, and vehicle fitness regulations. The authority will also oversee the registration and licensing of drivers to ensure safety and legal compliance.

“The goal is not to restrict business but to ensure consistency, safety, and fairness for both riders and drivers,” the minister said during a press briefing. “Karachi needs a smart mobility system, and this is a critical step in that direction.”

The new system will include a centralized digital platform that will connect all registered ride-hailing apps. This platform will allow real-time monitoring of vehicles, trip tracking, fare verification, and complaint resolution. It will also help the government collect accurate data to inform transport planning and policy decisions.

Benefits for Riders and Drivers : Sindh

For riders, the integration promises a host of improvements. Commuters will be able to compare prices and waiting times across different platforms through a single app interface. Additionally, the unified system is expected to reduce surge pricing and introduce fare transparency through government oversight. Most importantly, enhanced safety protocols—such as verified driver identities, emergency assistance features, and vehicle tracking—will provide greater peace of mind to passengers.

For drivers, the system aims to provide protections often missing in the gig economy. Under the new framework, ride-hailing drivers will be required to register with the transport authority, but they will also gain access to government-mandated benefits such as basic insurance coverage and standard working hour guidelines. Discussions are also underway to introduce fuel subsidies or incentives for electric vehicle usage among ride-hailing fleets.

Collaboration with Private Sector : Sindh

The Sindh government has initiated consultations with major ride-hailing platforms to ensure smooth implementation. Initial reactions from industry stakeholders have been cautiously optimistic. While some companies have expressed concerns about increased regulation and potential data-sharing requirements, most recognize the need for a coordinated approach in a city as large and complex as Karachi.

Careem Pakistan issued a statement saying, “We welcome any initiative that improves urban mobility, provided that it supports innovation and protects the interests of all stakeholders, especially the captains (drivers).”

The government has assured private players that the system will remain open and competitive, and that integration will not limit market access. Instead, it is intended to foster a more responsible, efficient, and consumer-friendly ride-hailing environment.

Looking Ahead : Sindh

The integration of ride-hailing services in Karachi is part of a broader push by the Sindh government to modernize the city’s urban transport infrastructure. Alongside the People’s Bus Service, BRT projects, and plans for improved rail connectivity, the unified ride-hailing system represents a forward-looking approach to mobility management in Pakistan’s largest city.

If successful, the model could be expanded to other cities across the province—and potentially nationwide—as Pakistan seeks to digitize its transportation networks and address the growing demand for smart urban solutions.