Now, autos are just a phone call away

Now, autos are just a phone call away
By: Chetan R Date: 2010-08-13 Place: Bangalore




If a group of techies have their way, you'll be able to call auto rickshaws at your doorstep. A few residents, resolute to bring a change in the auto service, have joined hands with auto drivers in their respective areas.

A group of techies from Jaynagar, who had earlier launched 'Neighbourhood Watch' an initiative to keep an eye on their residential area, now plan to start a new service 'Neighbourhood Autos', that aims to bring auto service closer to residents.

They have already launched it in three areas as a trial, including Sarjapur outer ring road that has over 20 IT companies.

"The initiative is a success in our trial areas," said Seetharam Vishwanath, a resident, and general secretary of Outer Ring Road Companies Association.

Residents have prepared a database of auto drivers, details of their auto and contact numbers, and have distributed it across locality, as a result of which, autos are just a phone call away.

"This certainly helps us serve better," said Mohan N, an auto driver, Marathalli. "I feel getting more autos in the loop will bring a change. It is more convenient for those who have difficulty in finding autos on the road."

With the success, the organisers plan to start off the service in other parts of the city as well.

Auto unions have expressed their willingness. "We are willing to join the drive," said R Somshekar, president, Bangalore City Auto Drivers' Union.

"This is good for us. We have often drawn flak because of unruly drivers. We will also add a database of drivers in our network across the city, if the organisers are willing."

Vishwanath wishes to take it on a bigger level and even partner with the transport department, if he gets support from them.