Say goodbye to high charge: Customers can now choose their own fares on 'Flexi Rides'

In a positive development for inflation-weary masses, a new ride-hailing option by Careem — called "Flexi Rides" — will now allow customers and captains to choose their own fares.

The development comes as the majority of the ride-hailing platforms in Pakistan offer "variable fares" which are subjected to factors such as time, traffic etc., leading to exuberantly high fares.

Flexi Rides, however, seeks to change the prevailing dynamics of ride-hailing apps by giving passengers and captains more control over the agreed-upon fares and allowing them flexibility in the commute cost.

At the time of booking, an average fare will be displayed to the customers, allowing them to increase or reduce the price. The bid will be sent to multiple captains in the area, enabling them to accept the ride or send a counter-bid.

Once the price matches, a captain will be assigned to the customer, beginning their journey.

The service, initially launched in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi by Careem on Wednesday, is available in three categories i.e., Flexi GO, Flexi GO Mini and Flexi Bikes.

The launch comes after the service was tested in Faisalabad and Multan where it garnered positive responses from customers and captains alike.

The service is likely to expand to other cities including Karachi and Lahore.

Terming the service as an attempt to allow customers to have the flexibility to choose their own fares, Imran Saleem — General Manager Ride Hailing at Careem Pakistan — said that the launch of Flexi Rides will resonate with the customers and captains.

It is to be noted that ride-hailing apps provide a feasible and economical commute alternative to the masses who have been facing the brunt of sky-high fuel prices due to the country's prevalent financial crunch caused by several factors including a depreciating local currency.