Tech-savvy Gurgaon commuters turn to travel apps

Taking advantage of the deficiencies in the public transport network, the private sector has entered the market with several innovative initiatives to address the public’s concerns.

Taking advantage of the deficiencies in the public transport network, the private sector has entered the market with several innovative initiatives to address the public’s concerns.

Commuters board private cabs on the Gurgaon expressway. (Parveen Kumar/HT Photo)

There are about 700 shuttle buses operated by companies such as Shuttl, Meribus, ZipGo and Ola Shuttle. Unlike roadways buses, these buses are not only comfortable, but also have several measures to ensure passengers’ safety. The buses are equipped with real-time tracking system and CCTV cameras.

“It is convenient to book private buses and travel in them. The buses are comfortable and, unlike roadways buses, I feel much safer in these buses,” Ankur Tara of Sector 15 said.

With simple and quirky mobile applications and websites, the tech-savvy customers can easily access all information about the services and easily book a seat.

“I have to spend hardly five minutes on the app and my seat is booked. It might take at least half an hour to get a state-run bus,” Akanksha Singh of South City said.

Considering that the autorickshaws in the city are unregulated, companied such as Ola, Jugnoo, Autowale and G-Auto have made a mark through their auto services. Auto drivers have also welcomed this move by private firms.

Some private firms have also introduced two-wheeler taxis to negotiate the traffic.

“One of the biggest reasons for the popularity of bike taxis in Gurgaon is the long hours people waste in jams. Bike taxis solve the issue. We have around 250 bikes in Gurgaon,” Rohit Koshy of Baxi said.