Uber tightens screening process for its 4,50,000 driver network

NEW DELHI: In line with its recent efforts to enhance the experience for both riders and drivers, Uber further tightened its screening process for its 4,50,000 driver network by launching a deduplication feature.

This is in addition to the verification that is carried out through face-recognition technology, where the driver takes a selfie before setting out for the day which is matched with the right driver profile for the account.

Under the de-duplication drive, Uber’s technology will help identify the duplicate accounts and these accounts will be temporarily paused. Those accounts that are not verified will be deleted and barred from use in the future. This will ensure that only verified drivers have access to the Uber app, the company said.

Pradeep Parameswaran, Head of Central Operations, Uber India said, “Whether you’re behind the wheel or sitting in the back seat of the car, Uber’s commitment to safety for everyone is unwavering. We will continue to invest in technology and innovation to help ensure a safe, reliable trip from beginning to end."

Uber also extended its ShareTrip feature to its drivers which already exists for the riders to share their trip status with their contacts. Under the feature, drivers will be able to share the trip information with loved ones, without implicating the privacy of the rider or divulging personal information or specific drop off or pick up points. This feature will be rolled out from Thursday in Delhi, Kolkata, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Pune, Lucknow and will be fully rolled out across India by end of this month.

Uber has also partnered with Delhi Police to allow quick access to Himmat, a women safety mobile app, through the app itself.

Apurva Dalal, Head of Engineering, Uber India, said, “We are maximising the usage of technology to bring transparency and accountability through features such as two-way feedback and ratings, telematics and GPS, among others, which we believe will have a positive impact on furthering trust and empathy between riders and driver partners.”

Earlier this week, Uber announced its partnership with ICICI Lombard General Insurance to provide accidental cover for its driver network. The insurance provides drivers with free coverage for accidental death and disablement, hospitalization, and outpatient medical treatment in case of an accident while online on the Uber App.