Bengaluru’s Autorickshaw Drivers’ Union (ARDU) is taking another innovative step towards enhancing commuters’ experience with the launch of the ‘Metro Mitra’ app. This app aims to improve last-mile connectivity to and from Bengaluru metro stations while bringing back the standard metre culture, promoting professionalism among auto drivers.
Reviving Professionalism and Meter Fare Culture
Recognizing the declining professionalism among auto drivers, ARDU aims to reintroduce the standard metre fare model to restore trust and ensure fair pricing. Rudramurthy, a representative of ARDU, emphasised the importance of adhering to government norms and reviving the use of metres to uphold professionalism.
Trial Run and Launch Date
The ‘Metro Mitra’ app is scheduled for a trial run starting from July 17, 2023. This initiative is expected to play a crucial role in enhancing the overall commuting experience for passengers by providing them with reliable and transparent fare calculations.
Seamless Integration with Metro Ticketing
To bridge the gap in last-mile connectivity, the ‘Metro Mitra’ app integrates with the ticketing system provided by the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL). Passengers who purchase Metro tickets through BMRCL’s WhatsApp chat bot feature will have the option to book an auto ride for their final destination.
Booking Process and Convenience
Once a passenger books an auto ride through the ‘Metro Mitra’ app, they will receive an OTP (One-Time Password) and the driver’s details. The passenger will be picked up from the designated Metro Mitra zone, specifically created for auto drivers.
Fair Fare Calculation
Upon reaching their destination, passengers will pay the auto driver based on the metre charges, following the standard fare structure. Additionally, a flat fare of Rs 10 will be added to ensure convenience and affordability for passengers. Similarly, those who wish to reach a Metro station can also book an auto ride from their source location.
Promoting Last-Mile Connectivity
The ‘Metro Mitra’ app not only focuses on reviving the metre fare system but also emphasises the importance of providing reliable last-mile connectivity to Bengaluru metro users. By seamlessly integrating with BMRCL’s ticketing system, the app offers passengers a convenient and efficient way to complete their journeys.
Enhancing the Commuting Experience
With the ‘Metro Mitra’ app, Bengaluru’s Autorickshaw Drivers’ Union aims to improve the professionalism of auto drivers while promoting transparency in fare calculations. By reinstating the metre fare model and offering a user-friendly booking process, this initiative is set to transform the last-mile connectivity landscape in Bengaluru and enhance the overall commuting experience for metro users.
