This analysis examines the news article “Sakhi auto service by
women, for women’ launched in Bengaluru” published by The Hindu,
which entails the launch of Sakhi, an auto aggregator service
exclusively for women, which started its operations in Bengaluru on
February 14. The auto aggregator service has inducted 50 autos
driven by women and will take orders only from women passengers. The
service will make travelling in autos stress-free for women.
Categorisation
The news is event-based and it highlights the launch of a new service, the fares, booking, number of people being onboarded, and the plan to develop an app in the future. The news is, however, linked to the problem of women’s safety and anxiety when travelling.
Who is Affected
Women passengers, especially those travelling during late hours, are directly affected. Women auto drivers working in a male-dominated sector are also affected. Existing ride-hailing platforms such as Namma Yatri, Uber, and Ola may be indirectly affected.
Who is Quoted
Vinutha, a woman auto driver Amruta P.,
a law student Krishnavi Parekh,
founder of the start-up Jaya Rajeev, a resident of Bengaluru
The quotes match the issue. A driver speaks about misbehaviour by male passengers. A passenger speaks about stress and caution while travelling. The founder explains why the platform was started. A resident raises concerns about availability and acceptance.
Summary of the Report
Sakhi, an auto aggregator exclusively for women, was launched in Bengaluru on February 14. The service has so far enlisted 50 autos, driven by women only. The initiative was launched to make travel a comfortable and stress-free experience for women. Only women are allowed to place orders for the service.
Vinutha, who has been driving an auto for two years, said that there have been instances where she has been harassed by male passengers. She was thrilled to be a part of Sakhi, which offers women auto services driven by women, for women.
A law student from Bengaluru said that although she has not faced any issues during her late-night auto rides, there is always some stress and caution in the back of her mind. She always makes sure someone tracks her live location. Platforms like Sakhi are seen as a stress-free option.
Founder Krishnavi Parekh said women feel the need to stay alert whenever they are travelling and that it was long overdue to get rid of that anxiety. While some residents raised concerns about driver availability, the founder said the response has been good so far. The team plans to launch an app within a month.