HelaGo, Sri Lanka’s newest locally-developed ride-booking platform, was officially launched today at Waters Edge, Colombo, with over 200 HelaGo drivers in attendance. The introduction of this platform marks a significant shift in the ride-hailing industry, emphasizing a model built on fairness, transparency, and choice for both passengers and drivers.
Entering the mobility sector, HelaGo aims to establish a more open and balanced ride-booking ecosystem. This innovative approach seeks to reduce uncertainty for passengers while ensuring fair opportunities and transparent earnings for drivers. Unlike traditional ride-hailing platforms that provide a single system-generated fare, HelaGo allows passengers to view multiple fare offers from nearby drivers, selecting the option that best suits their budget and preferences. This feature enables commuters to make informed decisions, particularly during peak hours when price fluctuations and payment confusion are prevalent.
During the launch, HelaGo Founder & CEO Dhanika Perera emphasized the platform’s “Open & Fair” pricing framework, which is based on a clear driver-passenger agreement rather than centrally controlled pricing. This model is designed to build trust and transparency by reducing unexpected fare changes and allowing passengers to compare offers upfront. HelaGo supports both cash and digital payments, providing passengers with the flexibility to pay according to their preference while minimizing payment-related confusion and enhancing overall ride convenience.
The launch follows HelaGo’s recent securing of USD 1 million in seed funding through a partnership with the David Pieris Group, a respected mobility conglomerate in Sri Lanka. This partnership strengthens HelaGo’s capacity to expand nationwide, leveraging operational support and an extensive dealer network, while also promoting structured passenger adoption. Both organizations being entirely Sri Lankan-owned highlights a shift towards homegrown innovation and national-scale digital solutions tailored to local needs.
HelaGo is now accessible on both Android and iOS platforms, providing users with convenient access to the service. Existing Helakuru users can book rides directly through the Helakuru Superapp, allowing millions of Sri Lankans already utilizing Helakuru to seamlessly access HelaGo within the ecosystem. For those not using Helakuru, including tourists, a standalone ride-booking app, “Go by HelaGo,” is available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, enabling instant ride bookings without the need for the Helakuru Superapp.
With the initial rollout in the Western Province set for January 6th, and plans for nationwide expansion, HelaGo aspires to redefine ride-hailing in Sri Lanka. The platform aims to create a fairer, more transparent, and open travel experience for both passengers and drivers.
