When app-based cab services were launched in Mysuru more than a year ago, autorickshaw drivers, who sensed a threat to their livelihood, saw red. But now, more than 700 autorickshaws in Mysuru have been roped in by transport aggregators like Jugnoo and Ola, who are providing app-based auto hailing services.
Commuters, who regularly use this service, have welcomed the concept as it not only prevents them from stepping out on the road to hail an autorickshaw, but also ensures that they are not over-charged for the ride.
The app-based auto hailing services had come at a time when complaints to the police about refusal to go on hire and demand for excess fare by autorickshaws had increased.
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Autorickshaw drivers, who are on these platforms, also claim they end up earning more than what they did earlier as they are almost always engaged, thanks to the consistent demand for app-based services. “It is a win-win situation for commuters as well as drivers,” said a representative of a transport aggregator.
A resident of Ramakrishna Nagar, who regularly books autos on her mobile app, said she was very satisfied with the service.
Anand Subramanian, senior director of marketing communications, Ola, said auto drivers get 40 per cent more business when they are on the app-based platform.
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“So, their earnings will increase by roughly 40 per cent,” he said.
Though app-based cab services were also launched in the city more than a year ago, the local population prefers to travel by autos as it is cheaper and the distances are not far.
While Jugnoo checks for autorickshaw drivers’ antecedents before taking them onboard for training, Ola, in a statement, said: “Every auto driver-partner on the Ola app goes through a KYC verification and training on behaviour, etiquette and technology, to make the ride experience seamless for customers.”