Are you a metro commuter in Bangalore city and face rejections from auto drivers, here is a brand-new app coming soon to fill metro-commute gaps.
Source: Inventiva
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To enhance the last mile connectivity between Metro stations in Bengaluru, the Auto Rickshaw Drivers Union (ARDU), known for their successful Namma Yatri app, is launching a new app called ‘Metro Mitra’.This collaboration with the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (BMRCL) aims to reintroduce professionalism among auto drivers and revolutionize mobility in the city. The app will undergo trials starting from Monday and is set to bring back the meter fare model, ensuring fair pricing for last mile connectivity services.
What is Metro Mithra:
Bengaluru’s Auto Rickshaw Drivers Union (ARDU) and Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) have collaborated to develop an app called Metro Mitra, aimed at enhancing the commuting experience for Namma metro passengers. Unlike other ride-hailing platforms, Metro Mitra is exclusively designed for metro users and will enable them to conveniently book auto rickshaw rides to and from any metro station in Bengaluru. The app ensures that the auto fares adhere strictly to the government-regulated rates, ensuring a hassle-free and affordable metro journey for its users. The anticipated launch date for Metro Mitra is in mid-August.
Source: The Financial Express
How does it work:
The ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce) model introduces a convenient feature for commuters, allowing them to book auto rickshaw rides to and from metro stations while purchasing their metro tickets through the BMRCL app or via the WhatsApp chatbot. Within the app, the commuters will simply have to enter their destination, and an estimated fare will immediately be displayed. To ensure a seamless experience, a designated auto from the ‘Metro mitra zone’ is assigned to the commuter either before or after their metro ride. In an effort to compete with popular ride-hailing services like Ola, Uber, and Rapido, ARDU launched the Namma Yatri app in November of the previous year. The app experienced tremendous success, garnering a significant number of downloads and attracting a substantial user base. This success highlighted the demand for regulated auto rickshaw fare quotes in the capital city of Karnataka.
Source: The Indian Express
Metro Mitra is currently undergoing trials at R V Road, Jayanagar, and South End Circle Metro stations. The initial aim is to have a minimum of 150 Metro Mitra drivers stationed at each of these stations before expanding to other Metro stations
