KATHMANDU: #IamWithPathao has hit the trending on Twitter amidst rumors that popular ride-sharing company Pathao is shutting down its services.

Social media users have launched a campaign with a hashtag #IamWithPatho saying that Pathao service should not be allowed to shut down since it is “affordable and dependable”.

Taxi drivers have been upping the ante against the ride-sharing company Pathao after their profession faced a crisis due to cheap and dependable services provided by Pathao.

Taking to Twitter, Dilli Guragain writes, “A taxi charges Rs 1,100 for Changathali from Tribhuvan International Airport against Rs 406 charged by a Pathao car.

Airport Taxi to Changathali: NPR 1100
Pathao Car: NPR 406
Which one would you take?#IamWithPathao

— Dilli Guragai (@dguragai) March 24, 2021

Similarly, appreciating the Pathao services, Bijay Balla says Pathao riders come to the passenger’s location, and it is very convenient and cheaper by 4 to 5 times.

Pathao riders come to the passenger’s location. So convenient, plus it’s 4-5 times cheaper.
Taxis are paying the price for “being difficult and unreasonable”.#IamWithPathao https://t.co/lNv5hh8zcf

— Bijay Balla (@bijayballa) March 23, 2021

“There is a reason why Pathao and Tootle rose to popularity. People don’t want to deal with taxi drivers. If Pathao riders and users protest together, the demonstration will be massive. The government should be cautious of that,” tweets Nepali Justice.

There is a reason why Pathao and Tootle rose to popularity. People don’t want to deal with Taxi drivers.

If pathao riders and users protest together, the show of force will be massive. The government should be wary of that. #IamWithPathao pic.twitter.com/cRgX7kh8T6

— Nepali Justice (@NepaliJustice) March 24, 2021

With the dispute taking a new height, police have warned Pathao riders not to come out in the streets clad in Pathao uniform. Many people have taken this security personnel’s warning as an act of irresponsibility and hint to shut down the ride-sharing company.

Pathao has risen to popularity within a short span of time among the commuters in the Kathmandu Valley due to its affordable fare and convenient services.