HelaGo Launched: A Locally-Built Platform Ushering in a New Era of Fair Ride-Hailing in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s newest locally-built ride-booking platform, HelaGo, was officially launched on January 5 at Waters Edge, Colombo, marking a significant shift in the country’s ride-hailing landscape. The launch event was attended by over 200 registered HelaGo drivers, symbolising strong grassroots support as the platform enters the market with a bold promise of fairness, transparency, and choice.

Positioning itself as an alternative to traditional ride-hailing models, HelaGo aims to create a more open and balanced mobility ecosystem—one that benefits both passengers and drivers while reducing long-standing pain points such as fare uncertainty and payment confusion.

A New Approach to Ride Pricing

Unlike conventional ride-hailing platforms that generate a single system-controlled fare, HelaGo introduces an “Open & Fair” pricing model. Under this system, passengers receive multiple fare offers from nearby drivers, allowing them to compare prices and choose the option that best suits their budget and preferences.

This model empowers commuters to make informed decisions, particularly during peak hours when dynamic pricing and sudden fare fluctuations have become common concerns.

Speaking at the launch, HelaGo Founder and CEO Dhanika Perera said the platform’s pricing framework is built on mutual agreement rather than centralised control.

“Our goal is to restore trust and transparency to ride-hailing by enabling clear driver–passenger agreement upfront, eliminating unexpected fare changes,” Perera said.

Driver-Centric and Passenger-Friendly

HelaGo’s operating model is designed to ensure fairer earning opportunities for drivers while improving ride convenience for passengers. The platform supports both cash and digital payments, allowing users to pay using their preferred method and reducing confusion around payment acceptance.

By simplifying fare visibility and payment options, HelaGo aims to deliver a smoother, more predictable ride-booking experience across the board.

Backed by Local Strength

The launch follows HelaGo securing USD 1 million in seed funding through a strategic partnership with the David Pieris Group, one of Sri Lanka’s most respected and established mobility conglomerates.

This partnership strengthens HelaGo’s expansion plans through operational backing and access to an islandwide dealer network, while also accelerating user adoption in a structured and scalable manner. Notably, both HelaGo and the David Pieris Group are 100% Sri Lankan-owned, reflecting a growing movement towards homegrown digital innovation built for local realities.

Accessible Through Helakuru and Standalone App

HelaGo is now available on both Android and iOS, offering two convenient access options. Existing Helakuru Superapp users can book rides directly within the app, instantly extending ride-booking access to millions of Sri Lankans already using the platform.

For non-Helakuru users and tourists, a standalone ride-booking application titled “Go by HelaGo” is now available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, allowing quick downloads and instant ride bookings without requiring the Helakuru ecosystem.

Nationwide Expansion Plans

With the Western Province rollout commencing on January 6, and plans underway for islandwide expansion, HelaGo is positioning itself as a long-term mobility solution tailored for Sri Lanka.

By prioritising fairness, transparency, and user choice, HelaGo aims to redefine ride-hailing in the country—creating a system where both passengers and drivers benefit from a more open and equitable way to travel.

Source : newswire.lk