Bengaluru Introduces ‘Metro Mitra’ App for Commuters: Reviving Standard Meter Culture

Bengaluru Introduces ‘Metro Mitra’ App for Commuters: Reviving Standard Meter Culture

The introduction of the ‘Metro Mitra’ app by the Bengaluru Autorickshaw Drivers’ Union (ARDU) aims to enhance last-mile connectivity for commuters using the Bengaluru metro. The app is designed to facilitate convenient transportation between metro stations and final destinations, while also promoting the use of standard meters for fare calculation.

By using the ‘Metro Mitra’ app, passengers will have a reliable and efficient mode of transportation for their journeys from metro stations to their desired locations. The app is expected to provide a seamless booking experience, allowing users to easily request autorickshaws and ensure a smooth transition to their final destinations.

In addition to improving last-mile connectivity, the app’s focus on reviving the standard meter culture is significant. This move aims to establish transparency and fairness in fare calculation, ensuring that passengers are charged accurately based on the distance traveled and the applicable tariff rates.

‘Metro Mitra’ app – Aim and Advantages

The trial of the ‘Metro Mitra’ app, scheduled to begin on July 17, 2023, signifies the initial testing phase of the app’s functionality and effectiveness. The primary objective of the app, as reported by The Indian Express, is to reintroduce professionalism among autorickshaw drivers in Bengaluru by reinstating the meter fare model for last-mile connectivity.

By implementing the meter fare model through the ‘Metro Mitra’ app, the aim is to establish a standardized and transparent fare calculation system. This approach can help ensure that passengers are charged accurately based on the distance traveled, providing a fair and consistent experience for commuters.

The trial period will enable the evaluation of the app’s performance, user feedback, and any necessary adjustments to ensure its seamless operation and alignment with the intended objectives. This testing phase allows for potential refinements to be made to the app before its full-fledged implementation.

According to Rudramurthy, the general secretary of ARDU, the objective of the ‘Metro Mitra’ app extends beyond enhancing last-mile connectivity. It also aims to integrate auto drivers into the mainstream auto services sector.

Rudramurthy highlighted that in recent times, many autorickshaw drivers have deviated from using meters, which has harmed their professionalism. To address this issue, the ‘Metro Mitra’ app intends to revive the standard meter culture, aligning with government regulations and norms.

By reintroducing the use of meters as per government guidelines, the app aims to instill a sense of professionalism among autorickshaw drivers in Bengaluru. This move can enhance transparency and reliability in fare calculation, providing passengers with a more consistent and fair experience during their journeys.

The focus on reviving the standard meter culture through the ‘Metro Mitra’ app reflects the efforts of ARDU to bring autorickshaw drivers back into compliance with established norms and restore professionalism within the industry.

How does the ‘Metro Mitra’ app work?

Under the new system, if a passenger has purchased a Metro ticket through BMRCL’s WhatsApp chatbot feature, they will have the option to book an autorickshaw ride for their last-mile connectivity. Once the auto ride is booked, the passenger will receive an OTP (One-Time Password) and the driver’s details.

The auto driver will then pick up the passenger from the designated Metro Mitra zone, specifically created for auto drivers. Upon reaching the destination, the passenger will pay the driver the fare based on the meter charges, along with an additional flat fare of Rs 10.

Similarly, if a passenger wants to travel to a Metro station, they can also book an autorickshaw ride from their current location to the respective Metro station using the ‘Metro Mitra’ app.

This integration of the ‘Metro Mitra’ app with the BMRCL’s WhatsApp chatbot feature aims to provide passengers with a convenient and seamless experience for their last-mile connectivity, ensuring they can easily access and travel between Metro stations and their desired destinations in Bengaluru.