A Case Study on Pathao: Technology Based Solution to Dhaka’s Traffic Congestion Problem

Abstract

This case details the founding of Bangladeshi logistics and ride-sharing company Pathao, solving the traffic congestion and transportation issues of the eighth most populated city of the world, Dhaka. Founded by entrepreneurs Hussain M. Elius, Fahim Saleh and Adnan Shifat in 2015, Pathao broadly operates under two primary areas—delivery and logistics service; and, motorcycle taxi service. It has established broad operations spread throughout the country and was able to differentiate themselves from competitors using an innovative idea to tackle the traffic problem in the city and by leveraging technology to streamline its operations. The case gives an overview of logistics and transport scenario in Bangladesh through the lens of the start-up. It depicts the challenges related to starting a new company; identifying, creating and interacting with the market; securing intellectual property rights, and developing a business model in a developing country.