Hyderabad:The fast growing app-based cab service provider UTOO, with its services in Hyderabad, Chennai and Bengaluru, is quietly making a difference in the lives of women hailing from underprivileged backgrounds. The taxi-hailing company has a number of women drivers in its fleet and plans to train and induct more number of women as drivers. “Having women as drivers is not just to ensure the safety of women passengers availing UTOO services, but is our policy to empower women who wish to take up driving as a profession”, says FazilBadrudeen, Brand Head, UTOO Cabs.
Before getting inducted into the UTOO fleet as drivers, women undergo rigorous training in driving, knowing safety measures and how to face and serve customers with dedication. The women drivers are put through 50 hours of driving and communication as well as soft skills training. They undergo rigorous tests and checks before they are posted into the active fleet serving the customers. The importance of keeping the vehicle clean, wearing the seat belt is prominently explained to them. UTOO also helps these trained women to get the license required to drive a taxi. Regular route training sessions are conducted so as to make them well aware and acquainted with the city and its peripherals.
A typical day at work starts at 10:00 AM in the morning and ends by 8:00 PM. This is in contrast to their male counterparts who work on a 12 hours shift. “Shorter shift timing for our women drivers creates a better and safer work environment. This flexibility helps them succeed and flourish,” Fazil adds. All UTOO cabs come with a panic buttons, which the women drivers can use to protect their safety in the times of need or any emergency.
Going forward, UTOO plans to expand services to all metropolitan cities in India. The app-based cab booking company aims to become a household name and take on the likes of Uber and Ola.