A new autorickshaw service named ‘Me2 Auto’ has been launched in Madurai by a group of people with an intended aim of helping autorickshaw drivers to protect themselves from the onslaught of competition from mobile-applications based cab services.
S. Farooq, the managing director of Me2 Auto, quit his career in the Information Technology sector to venture into this initiative. On the factors that differentiate Me2 Auto from other services, he said that apart from the option of booking autos through mobile application, customers can also book the service by dialling the call centre located in the city or through website. “Moreover, they can instantly take a ride if they see a Me2 Auto that is available on the road. This is not offered by others,” he said.
According to him, the most important factor, however, was the focus on the welfare of the autorickshaw drivers. “It is their initiative. We are just going to be facilitators. Our billing system is transparent, which clearly says the share for the driver. As of now, we only accept cash payment. Hence, the money goes to the driver, who in turn pays us,” he said.
“We have also formed a forum for the drivers to come together,” he added.
The fares, he said, will be as per government fixed rate of ₹25 for the first 1.7 kilometre and ₹ 12 for each kilometre travelled more. “Within a week of launch, we have around 230 autos enrolled with us and the response from customers has been good. Efforts are on to include autorickshaws at Madurai Railway Junction and Mattuthavani. If they join, it will be a win-win for both the drivers and customers,” he said.
