Union to launch auto hailing app, fares to be based on meter

Launch likely on July 15, services to be available initially in Mumbai and Thane, say union leaders

- Shashank Rao [e-mail]

MUMBAI: A new ride hailing app for autos floated by an autorickshaw operators' union is likely to be launched on July 15. The app, called 'Yatri Mitra', is currently undergoing testing in the beta stage. Once it goes live, commuters will be able to book rides using the app and pay as per the reading on electronic meters, union members and app developers told Hindustan Times.

"When we interacted with autorickshaw drivers in Mumbai and Thane, they shared the need for an app that could facilitate meter-based payments, benefitting both passengers and drivers," said DM Gosavi, general secretary of the Seva Sarathi Autorickshaw Taxi and Transport Union, which is behind the effort.