TT: Why Ranchi?

MSS: The state capital needs a better transport system. We can facilitate that 

Potential?

It is huge with lots of students and industrial houses. Ranchi is also a tourism and trade destination 

How is Ola different from operators hiring out cars? 

We are a technology firm, not a cab company.  We don’t own a single cab but have created a fool-proof system which makes transportation efficient for drivers and customers 

How does one book a cab?

Three ways: download the Ola app available in android, iOS, Windows phones or call 3355335 with the local code or use our website. After a booking, details are sent by SMS and email 

Fares? 

There are two categories of rides. Ola mini comes at Rs 49 for the first 2km, thereafter at Rs 12/km. Sedan rides come at Rs 49 for the first 2km, thereafter at Rs 14/km. We also have cashless system by which customers can prepay by recharging the Ola wallet on the app 

Future plans?

We are going to launch in Jamshedpur, Bokaro and Dhanbad. In Ranchi, we now have over 140 cabs. Within six months, we plan to run 500 cabs

After the Uber incident, app-based car services are under scanner.

I agree. But we are different from Uber or the others in the trade. We are a desi company. Security, comfort and transparency are our prime virtues 

What about safety measures?

Ola has allocated $ 20m for safety and security initiatives this year. Apart from live GPS tracking, continuous driver verification and training, we have introduced an SOS button in the app. Users can set details of emergency contacts. On activating the button, an alert is sent to the contact providing the cab’s location and driver details 

What about drivers?

We do a third party verification of drivers and vehicles

Any other plans?

We also run autos using apps in seven cities. We are doing a feasibility study in Ranchi. Fingers crossed