SHILLONG: Revolutionising commuting in Shillong, the days of stress-filled rides are over for local residents. With the advent of “AnyRide”, an innovative ride-sharing app developed by the local startup NERide, a seamless and convenient travel experience is now at the fingertips of Shillong’s commuters.
At a press briefing on Saturday, NERide’s IT consultant, Evan Kharsyntiew, delved into the functionalities of the platform. The system is composed of two distinct apps – one tailored for passengers and another dedicated to drivers or “captains” as termed by the company. “Riders have the flexibility to choose from a range of vehicles, including two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and four-wheelers. Interestingly, the four-wheeler category is bifurcated into local taxis and a couple of options catering to tourists,” he said.
Detailing the recruitment strategy for “captains”, Kharsyntiew mentioned, “Our focus is on engaging with students or individuals seeking a side hustle, an opportunity to augment their earnings.”
The pricing structure for rides, as Kharsyntiew informed, aligns with the rates stipulated by the Transport Department. However, it’s not just affordability that NERide is pitching; safety remains paramount. Emphasising the company’s commitment, Kharsyntiew stated, “While the two-helmet rule is a given, we urge our drivers to be particularly mindful of speed to ensure passenger safety.”
Addressing concerns over app security, he assured, “We’ve rigorously met all of Google’s security benchmarks. There were initial rumours about the app’s security and performance, but I can confirm its robust functioning now.”
A standout feature of the app is the in-built SOS button, enabling passengers to instantly share their location if they sense any threat or danger during their commute.
Commenting on the app’s journey, Kharsyntiew added, “We’ve been in a continuous cycle of refining and improvement. We held back the launch until we were confident of its optimal performance. Feedback from early adopters suggests its convenience and user-friendly nature.”
He further revealed that approximately 500 “captains” are currently affiliated with NERide. One of the app’s underlying strengths is its design compatibility, catering to both newer and older smartphone models, ensuring widespread accessibility.
