Rising inflation, unemployment, and the privatisation of public institutions have prompted a significant number of employees in Rawalpindi to seek secondary income through bike-hailing and delivery services. From government workers to private sector employees, many are turning to app-based platforms such as Bykea and food delivery chains to support household expenses as living costs continue to surge. Official estimates suggest that as many as 25,000 riders are currently active in Rawalpindi, reflecting a sharp increase in the number of individuals supplementing their salaries with part-time riding shifts.
This trend is not confined to low-income earners. Even employees up to scale-16 positions are engaging in part-time work after office hours. Women have also joined the sector, with some catering exclusively to female passengers, while others compete directly in the broader rider pool. Many female passengers, previously deterred by rising fares, are increasingly choosing bike-hailing services due to affordability. On average, a trip that costs Rs400 to Rs500 in a rickshaw is available for nearly half the price through these platforms, which has significantly reshaped transport demand across the city.
The rapid expansion of bike-hailing services has brought challenges for traditional transport providers. Rickshaw, taxi, and Qingqi drivers report declining earnings as more passengers opt for app-based rides. At the same time, some riders are reported to carry two passengers per trip, raising safety concerns. Police have also highlighted an increase in snatching and robbery incidents, with criminals impersonating riders to target passengers. While rider representatives argue that genuine drivers are committed to earning livelihoods honestly, they admit that misuse of the platforms by criminal elements has created risks for both customers and workers.
For many riders, the additional income makes a critical difference. A fourth-grade government employee, Faisal Siddiqui, explained that he works part-time as a delivery rider between 6 pm and 1 am, earning between Rs500 and Rs600 per night. Alongside his salary, these earnings help him manage rising household costs. Other part-time riders estimate daily earnings of Rs700 to Rs1,000, making the work an essential source of financial stability. Experts note that as privatisation extends to schools and health units, the number of part-time riders is likely to rise further, underscoring the growing role of gig economy platforms in supporting livelihoods during Pakistan’s economic challenges.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
