Bolt Drops 5,000 Drivers in Move to Ensure Passenger Safety

The announcement came on the back of cases involving the platform's drivers in Kenya.

Taxi hailing company Bolt has discontinued 5,000 drivers from its platform due to non-compliance and safety-related matters.

In a statement seen by The Kenya Times, the company noted that the discontinuation had been in progress for six months in line with its commitment to safety.

Bolt assured that any driver found to violate any of its safety standards would face action including permanent suspension from the platform.

The 5,000 were reportedly denied access to the platform after Bolt found them in violation of safety standards.

Bolt Country Manager in Kenya Linda Ndungu (left) presents a helmet to a bolt boda boda rider in the past. PHOTO/Courtesy.

But the compliance is not only focused on the drivers alone.

In the statement, the ride hailing company maintained that it would continue to permanently block drivers and riders, reported for any misconduct.

“These strict compliance measures have so far resulted in over 5000 drivers being denied access from the platform,” the statement read in part.

The discontinuation, according to Bolt, is part of the strict measures put in place to enhance safety for both clients and drivers using the platform.

In addition, the company announced that it had dedicated Ksh20 million to bolster safety features and measures.

Also Read: Bolt Kenya Hikes Fares Across Its Platforms

Part of the safety measures include new safety features including a selfie-check for drivers which is meant to ensure that drivers cannot share accounts or impersonate each other.

Bolt further noted that it had invested in cutting-edge technology to monitor and evaluate user behavior.

The technology, according to the statement, will help to ensure swift action in response to any identified safety concerns.

Bolt to conduct training sessions

Additionally, drivers using the platform would be subjected to regular training programs meant to raise awareness on the best practices while using the platform.

In efforts to enhance reporting of safety incidents from clients, Bolt introduced enhanced reporting mechanisms that will empower users to report safety concerns more efficiently.

According to the statement, the mechanism will enable swift and seamless communication on the app and thereby assisting users to communicate any case promptly.

Also Read: Bolt Bows to Pressure After Its Driver Was Caught Pants Down

Additionally, the company has a dedicated round the clock Safety and Social Media Support available on the app.

Linda Ndungu, Bolt Manager in Kenya assured users of enhanced safety while using the platform, noting that the company had made proactive steps to ensure their well-being during every ride.

“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,” Ndungu stated.