Adding to the existing call-auto groups comes Makkal Auto that promises to operate a service that is women-friendly and extra-advanced, while still sticking to the government stipulated meter rates. In addition to services like Auto Raja, Namma Auto and other call auto services that have cropped up in Chennai over the last few years, Makkal Auto looks to catch customers by being tech-heavy and super-safe.
Launched on Monday at the MGR Janaki College for Women, the service has begun with 100 autos and aims to increase its fleet to 500 autos within four months. The service was flagged off by people who had contributed to bringing about uniform meter fares for autos in some way or the other, according to its founder Mansoor Ali Khan. The dignitaries included Dr Prahalathan from Bhoomi Trust, Judge Vallinayagam, advocate Ramamurthy and several others.
As reported, Makkal Auto will have an android tablet with a panic button for passenger safety and cameras inside the auto. Besides this, 25 women auto drivers among the 100 will help ferry people across the city. However, the debit and credit card swiping facility for fares above `50 have been introduced only in 15 autos on a trial basis. The autos are all GPS-enabled and the driver’s information like license expiry, mobile number and photo will be displayed on the tablet screen.
To hail a Makkal auto, call 044-66777777 or contact them using their android app and the nearest auto will swing by — or if that’s too high-tech for you, just hail one of them when you see them riding past.