App-solutely good idea for hailing auto

VADODARA: Soon you will be able to use your smartphone to hire an autorickshaw in the city. And that too, without worrying about being overcharged by the rickshaw drivers.
Two youngsters have developed an app that allows commuters to book a trip. This app will be available for Android-based phones and will be launched by end of this month. The youngsters have already started registration of rickshaw drivers for launching this service.
"Like taxi operators, there are various operators who have launched auto-booking services in metros and elsewhere. But there is not a single operator who provides such services to book an auto in Vadodara," said Jaymin Patel, a passout from MS University who along with another MSU student Kartik Bhatia, is launching the new app.
"We have already roped in 150 rickshaw drivers and our target is to increase the number to 400 by the end of this month," said Patel, who after completing his bachelors in computer applications from MSU's faculty of science, has started Sadhrasya SoftTech, a start-up.
"Hunting an auto becomes a daunting task, especially for elders whose movements are restricted. Also, at times, commuters feel cheated about the fare that drivers charge. This app will help resolve such issues. The fare will remain same as a metered auto," added Patel.
The app which the duo have developed with the support of traffic expert Satyen Kulabkar will also provide an automatic fare calculation to avoid friction between commuters and auto rickshaw drivers which are frequently witnessed on the city's streets.
Also, the app will allow booking autos for a future date in advance. "We will be also providing coupon codes for discounts to commuters and in future integrating an additional payment gateway," adds Patel.