KOZHIKODE: The cashless auto service in Kozhikode City using the ‘Vehicle ST’ application is getting more takers from among City travellers. The application allows the traveller to pay the auto fare using the debit or credit card and also through e-wallets. Using the user mobile app, people can also book a ride and it allows tracking, navigation and getting the best prices directly from vehicle owners. The system launched in February in Kozhikode, is presently being installed in 105 autos during the first phase.
Using the interactive monitor fixed in the auto, the customer can easily pay money without the help of a second person either by swiping a card or using payment apps. If someone wanted to book a trip, the mobile app will send an SMS to the nearest autos available to the customer and drivers can bid their prices for the travel. The traveller can choose from among the bids which are affordable and profitable for him.
Abdul Nazeer
Speaking to Deccan Chronicle, Abdul Nazeer, one of the auto drivers in the City who has installed the Vehicle ST application, said that over the last three months, the number of customers using cashless transactions in his auto has increased. “Also, there is a significant increase in the number of online booking for the auto service from City people,” he added.
Auto drivers get a monthly income of '500 from the company for the advertisements playing on the monitor. The Vehicle ST autos are also equipped with a panic button embedded special alert cum security feature to ensure the safety of children and women. A round the clock functioning call centre is also part of the system. Vehicle ST is a startup company functioning at Infopark, Cherthala.
“Initially when we started the service, we faced some difficulties in order to make auto drivers understand ow exactly the system worked. Once it became successful, more auto drivers demanded that the system be installed in their autos,” said Muhammad Anas, lead service engineer of Vehicle ST. “We are now planning to install the system in more autos in Kozhikode due to its success,” he added. Apart from Kozhikode, the Vehicle ST facility is being used by autos in Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi.
