Hubballi: Youths launch free auto service to drop women home at night

HUBBALLI: Amid growing concerns over the safety of women, Auto Raksha Foundation (ARF), set up by like-minded youths, has started a dedicated autorickshaw service to drop women safely at night in twin cities.
Sunil Jangane, founder of ARF (Hubballi), told TOI that in the wake of recent rape cases reported from Mysuru, Hyderabad and other incidents, they decided to provide free auto service to women at night so their safety is ensured.
“Before launching the service, we did a survey in the twin cities to know the problems faced by women in reaching their houses during night hours. Many of them pointed to the lack of proper bus and auto services. They usually find it difficult to reach houses if they are alone or land in the city during night time after travelling from other places. Moreover, it is risky to wait for buses or autos at odd hours. The dedicated auto service addresses their concerns,” he said, adding those needing the service can call 7338252131 seeking help.
Explaining their service, Sunil said they share details of their drivers, including their Aadhaar number, vehicle registration number, to those who seek our help. We will also collect details of women who call us, but they will be kept confidential. Now, we are offering the service with one autorickshaw. The fleet will soon be increased to three and 15 bikes. If all our autos are engaged, we will deploy bikes to help the callers,” he said.
In the last two days, they have dropped three women as they did not get auto or bus. “We will drop women in Hubballi-Dharwad city limits. We have also kept a donation box in the auto. More than 15 people, who are from different professions, are involved in this service,” he added.