Kochi: Dedicated vehicle hire services for senior citizens under the Age-friendly Ernakulam programme have become functional with the motor vehicles department (MVD) allowing the District Panchayat to affix Senior-Taxi stickers on taxicabs.
Under the project, select auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers will get training in extending services to senior citizens including basic life support and safe driving. The vehicles displaying Senior-Taxi emblem will be made elderly friendly at a later stage.
“The vehicles will be available for hire round-the-clock to senior citizens who may have to go for routine hospital check-ups or other personal needs.
“The advantage is that no bystander is necessary as the driver himself is equipped to assist them. A leading hospital will train them in providing the services,” district panchayat president Asha Sanil said.
The first batch of 25 drivers has completed the training on essential medical facilities during emergencies and also attended the road safety class of the MVD.
“The services have started, and they will now train new drivers interested in being part of the project. However, they should have a good track record as they should not exploit the senior citizens in any way,” Age-Friendly Ernakulam coordinator Babu James said.
“The sticker should not contain any advertisement,” read the circular issued by the transport commissioner.
