Autorickshaws, cabs in city get QR codes to ensure safety of passengers

Greater Chennai Police launches QR code system for autorickshaws and taxis, ensuring real-time monitoring and emergency response integration.

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The Greater Chennai Police (GCP) on Friday launched a quick-response (QR) code system for passengers in autorickshaws and taxis in the city to quickly reach out to the police in case of an emergency.

Launching the new programme at the Secretariat, the Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Thursday distributed QR Code stickers to autorickshaw drivers.

This technology-driven safety measure will ensure real-time monitoring, follow emergency response protocols, and integrate with the portals of various cab aggregator services.

About 89,641 autorickshaws, including vehicles from adjoining districts, ply in the Greater Chennai City limits. Over 78,000 of those autorickshaws are attached with aggregators such as Uber, Rapido, and Ola.

In Phase I, the GCP has developed 88,859 customised and dedicated unique QR codes for normal and share autorickshaws.

Explaining the new initiative, GCP Commissioner A. Arun said the QR code would be pasted and displayed behind the autorickshaws/cab driver’s seat. In case of emergencies, pressing the SOS button would send an alert to the control room in the Police Commissioners’ office, providing the exact location and details of the autorickshaws, along with the owner’s details. Additionally, passengers have the option to call the 112 emergency control room.