Uber finally lets you directly call customer support: Here’s how to use the new feature

Uber has introduced a new safety helpline for its users in India. Here’s how you can use the latest Uber feature.

Now, Uber users can call customer care through a safety helpline (REUTERS)

Uber on Tuesday launched a new safety feature in India. Uber now has a 24/7 'Safety Helpline' for riders in India.

Uber had launched the pilot programme for its safety helpline in Chandigarh earlier this March. It is now available across India.

Uber's safety helpline option is built-in and can be found under the 'shield' icon. Users simply need to tap on the shield icon, select the 'Safety Helpline' option and swipe to make the call. The rider will be then connected to a Uber representative so they can share their ride issues. Uber lists four reasons that the rider can use the safety helpline for. These include situations where there are altercations with driver, route issues, rash or drowsy driving and car breakdown.

Uber says that this helpline will address safety related issues with ride. The company adds that the new 24/7 helpline is not a replacement for the existing 100 emergency option. Ola, on the other hand, has had the 24/7 helpline since 2011. The rival cab aggregator also has safety features like emergency button, ride sharing and real-time location tracking.

Pavan Vaish, Head of Central Operations (Rides), Uber India and South Asia said, "All our riders will now be able to access this helpline, any time of the day or night, should they need urgent assistance during their trip. We want to ensure safety is built into the services we offer to all our riders and this additional level of security reiterates our commitment to building the best safety standards across India."

Uber has been introducing safety features for riders globally, and in India. The company launched 'Ride Check' which uses GPS and other sensors of the driver's phone to detect possible crash. Uber also flags irregularities in the ride through this feature. Uber will alert the driver and rider asking if everything is alright, if there's a long stop during a trip.

Uber also brought its 'Safety Toolkit' to India last year. Its features include sharing your trip with up to five trusted contacts, updated emergency button and detailed information on drivers.