SAFETY MEASURES

Taxi firm Bolt fires 5000 taxi drivers

The discontinuity of the drivers from the platform has been necessitated due to non-compliance and safety related matters.

In Summary

•The company has now decided to put in place strict measures to enhance safety on its platform

•Bolt has dedicated over Sh20 million to bolster its safety features and measures.

Bolt branded vehicle
Image: COURTESY

Bolt has fired over 5000 drivers in the past six months over customer's security concerns.

The taxi hailing firm revealed that the discontinuity of the drivers from the platform has been necessitated due to non-compliance and safety related matters.

Bolt says it has now decided to put in place strict measures to enhance safety on its platform, with a dedicated Sh20 million investment to bolster its safety features and measures.

Bolt country manager, Linda Ndungu stated that the firm will continue to permanently block both drivers and riders, reported for any misconduct, from accessing the platform.

"At Bolt, the safety of all users on our platform is our top priority. We understand the trust our users place in us and we are taking proactive steps to ensure their well-being during every ride," said Ndungu.

"Our enhanced safety measures, stricter compliance measures, coupled with technology-driven solutions, reaffirm our commitment to providing a secure and reliable transportation experience for all," she added.

These initiatives signify Bolt's ongoing commitment to safety and user satisfaction.

The company is confident that these measures will contribute to creating a safer and more secure ride-hailing environment for both drivers and riders across Kenya.

Some of the initiatives that Bolt says it has undertaken to enhance quality and safety on its platform include monitoring and evaluating user behaviour, and ensuring swift action in response to any identified safety concerns.

For example, Bolt introduced the driver selfie check feature that deters cases of driver impersonation and account sharing. 

Bolt also has a comprehensive awareness and training program for riders and drivers alike.

This initiative aims to raise awareness about safety best practices, emphasising the importance of respectful and responsible behaviour on the platform as well as highlighting the how-to of using the in-app safety features.

The company says it has also intensified its efforts to enforce platform guidelines. 

Bolt remains committed to continue providing top tier safety infrastructure within the transportation and mobility ecosystem.

The company also says that it will continue to permanently block drivers and riders reported for any misconduct from accessing the platform.

These operational changes aim to amplify the safety features and trip experience of users on its platform.

Bolt is committed to elevating quality and safety on its platform through various measures which include constant innovation in safety features, like the driver selfie check, to swiftly address concerns.

A comprehensive awareness program emphasizes responsible behavior while stricter compliance measures ensure adherence to safety standards.

Violators face decisive consequences, including permanent suspension. Enhanced reporting mechanisms empower users to report safety concerns efficiently.

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