Safety is Biggest Concern for Uber India, Installing in-App SOS Button

The Mumbai Transportation has just warned Uber over security issues. The International ride -sharing service was banned earlier after Delhi rape case. Then, it was allowed on the basis of implementing security checks. But, Uber has not implemented them yet. Transport Minister, Mahesh Zagade has made the physical panic buttons compulsory in cabs. Press the button will send a call to the local police directly. So, the Mumbai transportation has thought to advise state government to ban Uber for not installing the safety features yet in its cabs and app.

In revert, Uber GM (Mumbai) Shailesh Sawlani has posted on its blog that they will be launching the emergency SOS button in its app on February 11. Well, the ride-sharing company though stated in its blog that positioning physical panic buttons may "cause confusion and are prone to wear and tear." The company has also mentioned all the safety features which it will be providing to passengers in respond to Mumbai Transportation’s action.

The Cab service said that its safety features are under processing and will come in existence from February 11. Shailesh Sawlani said that Uber does partners with contractors which are licensed by Government to provide transportation. Drivers are also not employed by them. He stated with an example, Imagine you enter the vehicle of a driver who works on four platforms. His/ her car will need to have four physical panic buttons. In a situation of distress the rider would have to pick the correct operator’s panic button to be able to get help on time. That’s 25% chance of success; and a decision that has to be made and executed in a split-second, if at all."

Sawlani also said that a safety net feature will also be come as built-in feature in Uber app along with in-app panic SOS button. The Safety net feature will allow users to share their location with family members and upto 5 friends. While the in-app panic button will let you to alert local police on push it.  Company has also highlighted background check feature in the blog which it has implemented for the same purpose.

Uber is committed to implement all the safety features along with background checks for drivers after relaunching its services in Delhi.

Source: ZDNet.com