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pp-based mobility company PickMe has recently opened new branch offices in Jaffna and Anuradhapura, six months after initiating a pilot program to extend ride-hailing services to the Northern provinces.
PickMe COO Isira Perera reported that the new services have been well-received in these districts. “Over 6,000 new drivers from Jaffna and Anuradhapura have joined us in the past six months, creating more economic opportunities in these areas. This expansion is part of our ongoing effort to connect Sri Lanka through digital mobility solutions. While local commuters are our main focus, we are also targeting the tourism market, which is crucial for our operations.”
With Alliance Air already offering flights between India and Palaly International Airport and Indigo Airlines expected to start soon, PickMe’s launch in Jaffna is timely. Extending services to the peninsula will benefit both local residents and travelers arriving at Palaly airport. Additionally, with plans to develop the KKS port under Indian sponsorship, PickMe is poised to expand its ride-hailing network in the Northern provinces.
“A large number of Free Individual Travellers (FIT) visit Sri Lanka, making their own transportation choices across the island. We are particularly interested in this market,” says PickMe CEO Jiffry Zulfer. “We also aim to create opportunities for entrepreneurs in the northern food supply business, leveraging our platform. Changing consumption patterns in the region present significant potential.”
PickMe’s app-based solutions include food delivery, parcel transportation, and logistical support for local businesses. From small vendors to large enterprises, local businesses will benefit from PickMe’s reliable logistics services, which ensure timely deliveries and improved operational efficiency.
Beyond economic advantages, PickMe’s expansion into Anuradhapura and Jaffna highlights its commitment to cultural preservation and sustainable tourism. Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the vibrant Jaffna Peninsula are significant tourist destinations in Sri Lanka.
By offering efficient and convenient transportation options, PickMe supports sustainable tourism initiatives that protect and promote the rich cultural heritage of these regions. This initiative boosts local economies and enhances the travel experience for visitors, making it easier and more comfortable to explore historic sites.
While operating primarily on a digital platform, PickMe acknowledges the importance of having a physical presence to assure users of safe commutes. Consequently, PickMe plans to expand its physical presence with more regional offices. These offices will provide on-ground support, access to smart travel options, and logistical assistance for local residents and visitors to Sri Lanka.
