App to track popular auto driver who offers commuters Wi-Fi, TV

Who would have thought a high school drop-out, who drives auto for a living, would deliver a TEDx Talk for his achievements. He is not just popular with the locals but even foreigners who come to the city for he sure knows how to make his customers happy.

Annadurai drives auto along the Thiruvanmiyur-Sholinganallur route and in his auto one can find iPad, free Wi-Fi, newspapers, 35 magazines, newspapers and much more. There is even a website dedicated to him. He gives gift coupons and even offers free rides on special occasions. Annadurai also regularly features in discussions on social media. 

His quest to satisfy his customers has earned him regular clients and friends. Sameer SA is one of them. “I have been Annadurai’s customer for over three years and every time I sit next to him and not behind. He’d often mention that though people knew about the services he provides, they couldn’t distinguish his auto from the others in the crowd. This gave me the idea to create an app,” says Sameer, adding, “I had this idea two years ago but since I was in college, I didn’t have the time to execute it.” 

Sameer with the help his friend Ashwin has finally developed the Amazing Anna App. Explaining the functioning of the app, Sameer says, “There is a map which shows the location of his auto and the route he will take. Even if the user has not opened the app, a push notification will be sent that will notify the user, if the auto is around. The other option is to book the auto after filling in the pick-up and drop locations. If Annadurai is free, he can accept the request,” says Sameer, who has created the app without charging a penny. “ I did it for my friend.”

Annadurai adds, “This is not a commercial venture. Often customers complain that they are unable to find me. They call me directly to check where I am. This app will make serving them easy.” It is currently available on Android phones and will be available on iOS platforms in a week.