Uber Says Introducing New Checks as It Looks to Resume Services in Delhi

Uber published a blog post on Friday highlighting its existing safety and convenience features, while saying the company is introducing additional safety checks in India. The popular taxi app made the announcement ahead of Monday's hearing by the Delhi Transport Department to determine whether Uber can resume services in the nation's capital.

"It's been a difficult time for all involved, including the rider and driver communities in Delhi but we're committed to bringing Uber back stronger and better in order to provide you with the safe, reliable and convenient transportation option that you deserve," the blog post said, ostensibly referring to the ban of Uber services in Delhi after alleged rape by one of the drivers associated with the the company.

In the blog post, Uber highlighted the security and convenience features it has always had: access to driver and vehicle information and real-time GPS tracking through 'Share my ETA' feature, commercially licensed and insured driver-partners who are required to be police verified as part of the licensing process, mandatory rating system, and "hassle-free payments."

These are standard features that Uber offers all across the globe. Now, the company says it is introducing additional security measures in India like background checks, re-verification of all drivers, as well as an enhanced ShareMyETA feature that includes live GPS tracking as well as driver name and photo:

• Police Verification: Re-verifying all Uber Delhi driver-partners have an authentic and valid police verification
• Document Verification: A local team of specially-trained safety experts to detect fraud, verify and authenticate driver / vehicle documents and test the validity of our screening
• Background Checks: Going above and beyond required government verification, we're engaging local and global experts to evaluate the most effective background screening solution across India; pilot programs are already running in select cities, including Delhi
• Incident Response Team: A local and dedicated customer support centre that will specialise on resolving critical issues for our rider and driver community in India
• In-App Safety Features: An enhanced ShareMyETA button is the first of a whole set of new integrated Uber safety features coming to India. ShareMyETA allows you to send your complete trip details (including live GPS tracking, driver photo, name and vehicle license no.) to your loved ones

"We are working on many more technology enhancements and partnerships and continue to innovate and focus on safety," Uber added.