SHILLONG: The start-up ecosystem of Shillong got a homegrown innovation as JETS 24×7 (Jaiaw Ehrngiew Transport Society), a local bike taxi aggregator, was launched to spruce up the city’s transport services on August 19.
Aimed at addressing the growing problem of employment and transform the way Shillongites commute, the bike taxi aggregator becomes the forerunner of innovation by being the first to incorporate AI-generated vocals in its advertisements. Facilitated through a user-friendly mobile app, JETS 24×7 boasts a roster of over 100 registered riders, carefully screened for passenger safety through rigorous police verification and permits.
Pynskhemlang Uriah, the Managing Director of JETS 24×7, recounted the journey that led to this pioneering endeavour. Born from an idea conceived in April 2022 Uriah highlighted how the escalating unemployment rate coupled with the absence of a local aggregators in the region, provided the impetus to emerge as a trailblazing venture.
“We recognised an opportunity and seized it. Our state needed a catalyst for progress in the form of a homegrown solution,” he said, adding that with a blend of technological innovation and entrepreneurial zeal, JETS 24×7 envisions connecting riders and passengers seamlessly, all while championing affordability and public safety.
Uriah also implored the community’s support, acknowledging the competition posed by established players from outside the state. “Our strength lies in local backing. As we navigate this competitive landscape, we count on the people to rally behind us. We’re not just offering a service; we’re nurturing a platform for local growth. Meghalaya needs a dynamic environment that nurtures local talent and innovation,” he said, extending an invitation to the public to embrace this local endeavour.
Uriah expressed his unwavering commitment to safeguarding passengers, underscoring the importance of real-time tracking offered by their digital platform. Uriah highlighted the multidisciplinary essence of JETS 24×7, bringing together expertise from fields ranging from information technology to law and accounts.
Adding to its allure, JETS 24×7 takes pride in its eco-friendly fleet, aligning with global sustainability goals. Uriah’s appeal to the government echoes a broader aspiration shared by many local visionaries – to cultivate a startup-friendly ecosystem that thrives on innovation. “A thriving environment for local startups can pave the way for remarkable transformations. We’re all invested in developing the state and curbing unemployment,” he concluded.
