Digital Mobility Solutions Lanka PLC (PickMe) has issued an urgent call for authorities to enforce the rule of law following a surge in intimidation incidents targeting app-based drivers across Sri Lanka's major tourist destinations. The ride-hailing giant warns that unchecked aggressive behavior by traditional three-wheeler operators is creating an unsafe environment for both drivers and passengers while damaging the country's tourism reputation.
Escalating Threats Against App-Based Drivers
PickMe reports a concerning increase in incidents where independent drivers using ride-hailing platforms face harassment, threats, and unlawful interference from non-app-based three-wheeler operators. These confrontations typically occur in high-traffic tourist areas where competition for passengers is most intense.
The company emphasizes that such intimidation tactics not only violate basic principles of fair competition but also create dangerous situations that could escalate into serious conflicts. App-based drivers, who operate legally under registered platforms, are being prevented from conducting their legitimate business activities.
Tourist Exploitation Concerns
Beyond the immediate safety concerns for drivers, PickMe highlights how this situation negatively impacts Sri Lanka's tourism industry. Non-app-based operators often exploit tourists through overcharging, lack of transparent pricing, and substandard service quality that regulated app-based services are designed to prevent.
The absence of proper regulation enforcement allows these practices to continue unchecked, potentially damaging Sri Lanka's reputation as a tourist-friendly destination. International visitors increasingly rely on ride-hailing apps for transparent pricing, safety features, and reliable service standards.
Fair Competition Under Threat
The ride-hailing industry operates under specific regulatory frameworks that ensure passenger safety, transparent pricing, and service quality standards. App-based platforms like PickMe maintain driver verification systems, GPS tracking, and customer feedback mechanisms that traditional operators often lack.
When non-regulated operators use intimidation to eliminate competition, it undermines the entire digital mobility ecosystem that has brought significant benefits to Sri Lankan consumers and the broader economy. This includes job creation, technology adoption, and improved transportation accessibility.
Economic Impact on Digital Innovation
The ongoing intimidation campaign against app-based drivers threatens Sri Lanka's progress in digital transformation and innovation. The ride-hailing sector represents a significant investment in technology infrastructure and has created thousands of employment opportunities for drivers across the country.
If left unaddressed, these issues could deter further investment in Sri Lanka's digital economy and discourage international companies from expanding their operations in the country. The technology sector's growth depends heavily on a stable regulatory environment and consistent law enforcement.
Call for Immediate Government Action
PickMe is urging relevant authorities, including police and regulatory bodies, to take immediate action to protect app-based drivers and ensure fair market competition. The company emphasizes that existing laws already provide adequate framework for addressing these issues – what's needed is consistent enforcement.
The ride-hailing platform suggests that authorities should increase patrols in tourist areas where incidents commonly occur and establish clear consequences for operators who engage in intimidation tactics. Additionally, better coordination between tourism police and regular law enforcement could help address these challenges more effectively.
Protecting Sri Lanka's Tourism Recovery
As Sri Lanka works to rebuild its tourism industry following recent economic challenges, maintaining high service standards and visitor safety becomes crucial. The country's tourism recovery depends significantly on positive visitor experiences, including reliable and safe transportation options.
App-based ride services play an important role in modern tourism infrastructure, offering visitors the convenience and security they expect when traveling internationally. Protecting this service ecosystem supports broader tourism recovery efforts and helps maintain Sri Lanka's competitive position in the regional tourism market.
Industry Standards and Consumer Protection
The conflict highlights broader questions about industry standardization and consumer protection in Sri Lanka's transportation sector. While traditional three-wheeler operators provide valuable services, the lack of unified standards creates inconsistent experiences for consumers and unfair competitive conditions.
PickMe advocates for a regulatory approach that ensures all transportation service providers meet basic safety and service standards while allowing fair competition based on service quality rather than intimidation tactics.
Moving Forward
The resolution of this conflict requires coordinated action from multiple stakeholders, including government authorities, industry players, and civil society organizations. Establishing clear rules and consistent enforcement will benefit all parties by creating a stable, competitive market environment.
PickMe's call for rule of law enforcement represents more than just a business dispute – it reflects broader challenges facing Sri Lanka's digital economy transformation and tourism industry recovery. How authorities respond will likely influence future investment decisions and the country's reputation as a destination for both tourists and technology companies.