In response to an alleged rape by an Uber driver last month, one of India's largest taxi companies is rolling out a new service focused around female safety.
MeruEve, which was officially launched by Meru Cabs in Delhi on Friday, is the name given to a new fleet of pink and white hatchbacks outfitted with pepper spray, panic buttons and pink-vested female drivers trained in self defense. The cars are only available to female passengers.
"Today safety has assumed the utmost importance amongst commuters when using local transport," said Siddhartha Pahwa, CEO of Meru Cabs. "At Meru, passenger safety has always been pivotal resulting in various technological innovations to overcome security issues impacting the cab industry. MeruEve is an extension of our efforts and we are proud to launch our new service in support with Delhi Police.”
Liveries designed to appeal to women's safety concerns have existed in India for years, such as ForShe Taxis and Sakha Consulting Wings, both offering female chauffers.
But MeruEve has taken the commitment a step further, working in tandem with Delhi police departments to equip its cars with 3G enabled mobile phones with video recording capability, a panic buzzer, pepper spray, women helpline numbers, and a speed dial for the local distress call number.
In addition, its female drivers are trained by local police how to respond in emergency situations, according to the company announcement.
MeruEve cabs will be available to passengers at a standard radio taxi fare of 23 rupees per kilometer, the announcement stated. The service will be available through a call center, the company's existing mobile app, and via curbside pickup.