Ola has updated its app so that you can even call an auto right from your smartphone, in case you’d prefer to spend less on your commute. Previously, the service was restricted to offering customers information on cabs and cars only.
Ola claims that more than 1000 autorickshaw drivers have registered themselves in its system so far. In order to find one nearby, you can simply launch the application, give up your location information and tap the required icon.
Once you’ve done this, Ola will look for autos that are parked closest to your vicinity and ask you to confirm your request. The message is passed to the driver in question who then rings you up to ask for your location.
Those who register with Ola agree to charge customers by meter. Users are also asked to cough up Rs 10 extra as a convenience fee and payments must be made in cash only. There’s no option to go cash-free with Ola Money when taking autos.
Also see: PoochO app for hiring Delhi autos said to be faulty by users
If you remember, the PoochO app backed by the DIMTS (Delhi Integrated Multi-Model Transit System), also delivers information on rides that are available at a given time. But it hasn’t exactly got rave reviews from its various users.
The transport department is currently attempting to regulate companies which adopt the aggregator model of business. This means that the firms don’t own the vehicles they are linked to, but simply partner up with the service providers.
Getting back to the Ola service, the app can be downloaded from Google Play Store, Apple iTunes and Windows Store for free.