In a significant move to boost local tourism and streamline urban mobility, the NTR district administration in Andhra Pradesh officially launched the 'Andhra Taxi' mobile application on Thursday. The initiative aims to provide a reliable, comfortable, and affordable transportation solution for both tourists and residents of Vijayawada.
A One-Stop Platform for Travel and Tourism
The formal launch was conducted by District Collector G. Lakshmisha at the district collectorate premises. The event saw participation from representatives of taxi and auto unions, drivers, and officials from the tourism and transport departments. Lakshmisha highlighted the app's role as a multifaceted platform, integrating not just ride-hailing but also key district tourism information, transport services, and even agricultural drone service details.
A standout safety feature is the SOS facility, which is directly linked to the nearest police station, ensuring prompt assistance for passengers in need. Understanding the diverse digital preferences of users, the administration has enabled multiple booking channels. Alongside the mobile app, users can book auto-rickshaws and taxis via QR codes, WhatsApp, and a dedicated website.
Curated Tourism Packages Unveiled
Going beyond mere transportation, the launch also marked the introduction of pre-designed tourism packages to showcase the district's heritage and natural beauty. Collector Lakshmisha announced curated itineraries spanning one to four days.
The one-day package is packed with visits to major attractions, including:
- Kanakadurga Temple
- Bhavani Island
- Kondapalli Fort
- Bapu Museum
- Gandhi Hill
- Berram Park
- Pavitra Sangamam (ferry ghat)
Details for the longer two-day, three-day, and four-day packages are available within the 'Andhra Taxi' application, offering tourists a structured and hassle-free way to explore the NTR district.
Collector Tests Service First-Hand
Demonstrating confidence in the new system, District Collector Lakshmisha personally booked an auto-rickshaw ride through the app immediately after its launch. He travelled from the collectorate to Benz Circle to personally assess the service quality and user experience. Following the test ride, he expressed satisfaction with the app's functionality and the quality of service provided.
This initiative by the NTR district administration represents a concrete step towards digital governance and promoting local tourism. By consolidating transport services with tourism information and safety features, the 'Andhra Taxi' app is poised to become an essential tool for anyone looking to navigate Vijayawada and its surrounding attractions with ease and security.
