Users can soon make direct UPI payments to Ola cab drivers via app

Direct UPI payments for Ola rides

• Ola CEO Bhavish Aggarwal shared on X (formerly Twitter) that Ola cab users will soon be able to make digital payments exclusively through the app.
• The initial launch of this feature is planned for customers in Bengaluru.

• Starting from the end of the upcoming week, Ola cab users in Bengaluru will be able to make UPI payments directly to the driver through the ride-hailing app.
• The service is expected to expand to other regions across the country following the initial launch in December.
• Presently, Ola allows users to make payments in cash, through Ola Money, using credit or debit cards, Google Pay and through Ola Money postpaid.

It is worth noting that with this new feature, users will have the option to generate a UPI ID within the Ola app, directly link their bank accounts, and complete payments without the need for a third-party payment app.

Separately, reports say Ola has been enhancing its app with a variety of features to offer users a broad range of services and conveniences. A notable collaboration with ONDC, initiated in September 2023, is geared towards integrating food delivery services directly into the Ola app.

In this partnership, Ola intends to utilise its cab drivers as last-mile delivery agents for diverse categories such as medicines, apparel, and groceries through ONDC. There is also contemplation about expanding the collaboration beyond logistics to include mobility services through ONDC.