NCW issues safety guidelines to step-up monitoring of app-based transport services

NEW DELHI: Taking note of safety concerns emerging from across states the National Commission for Women has issued guidelines to states and UTs for safety of women passengers using app-based and digital transport services calling for appropriate verification of criminal antecedents, police verification and background of drivers before onboarding, monitoring of drivers operating during late-night hours and providing SOS buttons in every cab to send out alerts to the command-and-control centre.The NCW notes that as cabs, auto-rickshaws, bike taxis and other app-enabled transport services have become an integral part of everyday mobility, particularly for women travelling independently, ensuring safety throughout the journey has assumed greater importance.Instances relating to mismatch in driver or vehicle identity, route deviation, inappropriate conduct, harassment, stalking, unsafe drop-offs, delays in emergency response and inadequate grievance redressal underline the need for a coordinated and accountable safety framework.The guidelines issued in this backdrop also take into consideration the…