Auto-rickshaws operated by Rapido will have seat belts

For the first time, Rapido has introduced seatbelts for passengers to promote the safety features of Rapido's daily rides and to raise awareness about road safety.

“Being a responsible service provider, we truly believe that road safety is an important concern today, so running an awareness campaign to taking strict training sessions for captains (Drivers) is part of our policy from day one...Since road accidents in India have startling statistics, Rapido’s initiative seeks to reduce fatalities and injuries," said Pavan Guntupalli, Co-founder of Rapido Auto.

Additionally, the company has implemented a four-step background verification process for its drivers.

"We have also introduced a unique information-masking feature to protect the privacy and identity of female riders. Rapido also offers live ride tracking with access to granular latitudinal and longitudinal data and 24/7 on-ground support for shared rides," the statement said.

As part of its safety awareness programs, Rapido Auto has also collaborated with city traffic police departments across India.

In Gurgaon, Hyderabad, Chennai, Bengaluru, Vijayawada, and Madurai, these initiatives included training their captains in CPR and basic life support and a mime program to demonstrate road safety at heavy traffic junctions.

In January, the Bombay High Court ordered Rapido to suspend its bike-taxi service after it was discovered that Rapido lacked a license to operate.

Delhi Transport Department too in February, issued a public notice to the companies to stop their bike taxi services effective immediately over safety and license issues.