Auto ride to become Easy

Auto ride to become Easy



Express News ServiceFirst Published : 20 Nov 2009 04:25:00 AM ISTLast Updated : 20 Nov 2009 06:38:53 AM IST
BANGALORE: Auto-Rickshaw drivers refusing to take passengers to certain destinations has been a persistent problem in Bangalore.
The good news is this might become a problem of the past if the Easy Auto service launched by the Smart Commuting Services Private Limited (SCSPL) on Thursday, takes off. This service is designed to address the day-to-day hardships faced by commuters when they take an autorickshaw.
WHAT WILL IT DO
One can call 9844112233 for an autorickshaw to come to their doorstep and commute to the desired destination.
SCSPL MD Padmasree Harish said that the Easy Auto service would address the first and last mile connectivity problems of urban transportation and the goal is to reduce the usage of private vehicles thereby reducing traffic congestion.
She said that the vehicles will be monitored and tracked using GPS technology and drivers are accountable thereby ensuring safe commuting.
Padmasree said that this service will help decongest the city roads by at least 30 pc. “The service would be commuter-friendly and helps in better integration of urban land transport network,” she added.
The Easy Auto service has a fleet of 50 autorickshaws on road as of now.
“Initially, the call centre works between 7 am and 10 pm. We have started installation of the GPS units in the next 25 vehicles that are expected to go on road by Dec 1, 2009.
By March 2010, we are looking at increasing our fleet size to 500 autorickshaws and by Feb 1, 2010, 250 autorickshaws,” Padmasree informed.
It was said that by March 2010 registered members of Easy Auto will be able to use an SMS to find autorickshaws near their localities.
“Currently, commuters can call the call centre at 9844112233 for the service. By March 2010, the commuters can book autorickshaws through SMS or by logging on to the website - www.easyauto.in,” she added.
At Easy Auto, a fixed monthly revenue is provided to the driver for carrying the digital advertising screen in the autorickshaw and the medical insurance for the driver and all members of his family is covered, Padmasree said.
The autorickshaws will have tamper-proof digital fare metres and digital screen for the entertainment of the commuters inside the autorickshaws.
She further said that Rs 75 would be charged as a one-time registration fee for the commuters and Rs 3 as service charge. “However, initially this service is being offered free of cost without registration fee and service charge,” Padmasree added.