New features promise easier onboarding, emergency ambulance assistance and additional income opportunities for Kolkata’s app-based drivers.App-based cab and bike taxi drivers in Kolkata could soon have greater flexibility in choosing working hours, accessing emergency assistance and exploring additional earning opportunities, with Uber announcing a series of driver-centric initiatives on Thursday. The measures, aimed at improving earnings and safety, come amid growing dependence on app-based mobility services and concerns over the working conditions of gig workers.Unveiled at the third edition of Uber Pragati, the initiatives target more than 20 lakh people earning through Uber’s platform across India. The company said the changes would simplify onboarding, reduce interruptions to work and strengthen safety protections.Among the major announcements is a Flexible Drive Pass, allowing drivers to choose subscription periods ranging from six hours to 180 days. The feature is designed to accommodate both part-time and full-time drivers, potentially benefiting Kolkata’s cab and two-wheeler operators who alternate between multiple platforms.Uber has also introduced Quickstart, enabling prospective drivers to join through WhatsApp, while its Earn First, Pay Later facility allows eligible drivers to continue accepting cash trips within a prescribed credit limit even after exhausting their account balance.Drivers will also be able to exchange voice notes with passengers through the app, while a redesigned interface will provide easier access to earnings, trip details and updates.Safety forms another major component of the initiative. Uber has partnered with Dial 4242 to facilitate ambulance assistance through its round-the-clock Safety Line. The service has already been used on 25 occasions in less than four months, the company said.Its encrypted Record My Ride video feature has also reportedly helped police establish facts in a disputed incident involving a driver and passenger.A new Safety Content Flag will identify potentially inappropriate messages and allow drivers to cancel eligible trips without affecting their cancellation records.“Our ambition is to continue being the platform of choice for flexible earning opportunities in India,” said Aditya Kapoor, director, Supply Operations, Uber India and South Asia.The company is also expanding earning opportunities through bike-based intercity travel, parcel deliveries and Uber Direct for business deliveries. Uber Pet will allow participating car drivers to carry passengers travelling with animals.Uber, which operates in 225 Indian cities, did not specify when all the announced features would become available in Kolkata or how many local drivers would benefit.
