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In Bengaluru, auto-rickshaw drivers have introduced a new app called "Nagara" to help bring back the meter culture. This app allows drivers to find passengers both digitally and through street-hailing at government-approved fares. The initiative is led by the Karnataka Rajya Chalakara Parishath (Karnataka State Driver's Council) and Agnibhu Technologies.
How the "Nagara" App Works
Booking Rides:
Passengers can book rides through the Nagara website, by scanning the driver's QR code, or via WhatsApp.
Metered Fare:
The fare is calculated according to fixed government rates:
- Rs 30 for the first two kilometers
- Rs 15 for every subsequent kilometer
Driver QR Code:
Drivers have a unique QR code that passengers can scan to start a ride. This makes it easy for street-hailing passengers to use the service.
Professional Credentials:
Drivers share their professional details with passengers through their unique webpage on the app. This ensures transparency and trust.
Payment:
The fare meter starts only after the passenger provides an OTP (One-Time Password). The fare is collected at the end of the trip based on the distance traveled.
Benefits of the "Nagara" App
For Passengers:
- Fixed Government Rates: No more haggling or worrying about overcharging. Passengers pay Rs 30 for the first two kilometers and Rs 15 for each additional kilometer.
- Transparent Fares: Fares are calculated based on the distance traveled, ensuring fairness.
- Multiple Booking Options: Passengers can book rides through the website, by scanning the driver's QR code, or via WhatsApp.
- No Surge Pricing: Unlike other ride-hailing apps, Nagara does not have surge pricing, making it affordable for passengers.
For Drivers:
- Professional Credentials: Drivers can display their professional information to passengers, building trust.
- Unique Driver QR Code: This feature allows drivers to easily start rides for street-hailing passengers.
- Seamless Experience: The app makes it easy for drivers to receive ride requests through multiple channels.
- No Commissions: The drivers' union does not charge a commission, meaning drivers can keep more of their earnings.
Reintroducing Meter Culture
The rise of aggregator apps had pushed the traditional meter-based fare system into the background. The Nagara app aims to change that by offering a professional, transparent, and reliable auto-rickshaw service that adheres to government-approved fares.
The "Nagara" app is a significant step towards bringing back the meter culture in Bengaluru's auto-rickshaws. It ensures fair pricing, transparency, and convenience for both passengers and drivers. With this new app, Bengaluru's auto-rickshaw drivers aim to provide a better, more reliable service to the city's residents and visitors.
The Nagara app stands as a testament to the commitment of the Karnataka State Driver's Council and Agnibhu Technologies to enhance urban mobility while respecting traditional fare systems. It's a win-win for everyone, ensuring fair prices for passengers and better earnings for drivers.
