App-based E-Rickshaws as First Mile, Last Mile Transport Provider
Gurgaon: In a move aimed at offering safe last-mile connectivity to commuters, particularly women, MCG is planning to launch 1,000 app-based e-rickshaws in the city.
The service is being launched by Smart-E, which is already operating e-rickshaws in Delhi. It will charge fares in two categories — sharing and individual bookings. The fare for a shared ride will be Rs 10 for the first 2km and Rs 5 per km thereafter. Individual bookings will cost Rs 30 for the first 2km and Rs 5/km thereafter, said an official.
E-rickshaws can be booked through a mobile phone application, which will be made available soon. The app will show commuters approximate waiting time before they can hop on to the next Smart-E.
For the safety and security of commuters, all vehicles will come with GPS and CCTV cameras. It will be the first e-rickshaw service with CCTVs. Cops will do mandatory background checks of all drivers. In Delhi, Smart-E also has several women drivers. They are trying to get women drivers on board in Gurgaon as well.
The news was welcomed by residents, women in particular. “It’s a welcome move. The city lacks public transport for last-mile connectivity. More e-rickshaws will help working women like me to commute easily. As they will come with CCTV cameras, women will feel safe commuting in them,” said Parul, a PR professional who commutes everyday from Delhi to her office in Cyber Park.
Article published on Times of India
