MetroMitra App to Launch in Bengaluru, Offering Meter Fare Auto Rides From All Metro Stations

The Autorickshaw Drivers' Union (ARDU) in Bengaluru is planning to launch a new app called MetroMitra to improve last-mile connectivity from Metro stations. The ARDU is building on the success of their previous autorickshaw aggregator service called 'Namma Yatri'.

Unlike 'Namma Yatri', which operates on an open-mobility network, MetroMitra will use the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC).

Several media reports indicate that MetroMitra will operate on a metered charge system, with a base fare of Rs 30 for the first two kilometers and Rs 15 for each subsequent kilometer, along with an additional Rs 10 for other expenses.

MetroMitra will charge a meter fare plus a flat fee of Rs 10 to cover technology and trip pick-up costs.

D Rudramurthy, the general secretary of ARDU, mentioned in the report that to access MetroMitra, users will not need to download a separate app to use MetroMitra, as it can be accessed through multiple buyer applications, such as Paytm and Pincode, that operate on the ONDC network.

According to a report from Moneycontrol, the autorickshaw drivers' union has been in talks with the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) to integrate MetroMitra into the Metro Chatbot. It is expected that the service will be launched by the end of August 2023.

The ARDU says that MetroMitra will help to improve the reliability and convenience of last-mile connectivity in Bengaluru. The app will also help to ensure that autorickshaw drivers are professional and courteous to passengers.

In another report from the Deccan Herald, it is mentioned that the drivers who choose to be a part of MetroMitra will undergo training to ensure professionalism and will be subjected to grooming and sensitization measures.