Uber launches 'Ride for Nepal', commits Rs 5m to NRCS for flood relief

KATHMANDU: Uber has launched the Ride for Nepal campaign and committed Rs 5 million to the Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS). The funds will support relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts for communities affected by recent floods.

The initiative, which began on September 21, will continue until October 20 and invites participation from passengers and driver partners.

The company said the initial contribution would be used for emergency relief supplies, temporary shelters and rehabilitation work. In addition, Uber will donate Rs 10 for every completed Uber Bike trip and Rs 20 for every completed Uber Cab trip to the Prime Minister Disaster Relief Fund. Uber confirmed that the additional donations would be made by the company, with no extra charge to passengers or deductions from drivers’ earnings.

Akanksha Singh, head of international markets for Uber India and South Asia, said collective action was vital to the recovery of affected communities and that the company saw its role as extending beyond providing mobility.

“Uber will work with the Nepal Red Cross Society and use its network and resources to assist relief efforts,” she said.

Arjun KC, founder and chief executive officer of Taximandu, Uber’s strategic partner in Nepal, urged widespread participation.

“‘Ride for Nepal’ is not merely a campaign; it is an opportunity for all of us to stand united and assist during a time of disaster,” he said. “With every ride booked by passengers and every journey accepted and completed by driver partners, Uber’s contribution to relief efforts will increase.

“Therefore, let passengers book rides with Uber, let driver partners go online and accept rides, and help gather as much relief funding as possible. Let every journey become a contribution to the relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction of flood-affected areas. Let’s Ride for Nepal.”

He added, “Today, a ride is not just a journey from one place to another; it is also an opportunity to contribute to the rehabilitation of disaster-affected Nepali communities. The more Uber journeys we take together, the more contributions will be gathered. Let us all join hands in rebuilding flood-affected areas.”