UTOO Cabs to Train and Induct More Women Drivers into its Fleet in South India

Team Udayavani, May 25, 2017, 12:20 PM IST

Bengaluru: The fast growing app-based cab service provider UTOO, with its services in Bengaluru and other south Indian cities is quietly making a difference in the lives of women hailing from underprivileged backgrounds. The taxi-hailing start-up has a significant number of women drivers and plans to train and induct more number of women into its fleet. The startup aims to expand its presence in Bengaluru and become a household name here by taking on the likes of Uber and Ola, the entrenched players in the industry. “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 Fazil Badrudeen, Brand Head, UTOO Cabs.

Before getting inducted into the UTOO fleet as drivers, women undergo rigorous training in driving, safety measures and customer-facing and serving. The aspiring women drivers are put through 50 hours of driving, communications and soft skills training. They undergo thorough tests and checks before 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 button, 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 and tier-2 cities in India.