Coronavirus impact: Ola introduces fumigation centres for auto-rickshaws

Taxi service provider Ola has announced a fumigation facility and safety protocols for its auto-rickshaw services. Ola has introduced new safety measures while considering those people who travel by auto-rickshaws and provide them with safe transportation. All Ola auto-rickshaws will have a protective partition screen between the driver and passenger section. This creates an extra layer of protection between the driver-partner and the rider. The company has also set up over 100 fumigation centres across the country and all vehicles must go through the fumigation process every 48 hours.

Anand Subramanian, Spokesperson for Ola said, "Being ubiquitous to India, Auto-Rickshaws are one of the most economical and widely used means to commute in our country. With these added safety measures for Ola Auto, both driver-partners and citizens are assured of a comfortable and safe ride. Ola's five layers of safety bring the assurance of a high-quality ride, with the affordability and access of Ola Auto as a preferred first and last-mile mobility solution."

The company has set new safety guidelines and hygiene protocols to develop trust among customers. This includes Ola's selfie authentication technology that ensures that driver-partners are wearing masks at all times. The company's protocol states mandatory use of masks, regular health and temperature checks for driver-partners and sanitisation of the vehicle before every ride.

The company has also handed over hygiene kits to all its driver-partners. And a flexible ride cancellation policy has been introduced that allows riders and driver-partners to cancel the ride if the safety guidelines are not being followed. Ola auto services are available in over 120 cities across the country.