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Didi launches new service requiring drivers to wear masks, with customers numbers on the rise

MELBURNIANS across inner-city and coastal suburbs are flocking back to ridesharing as restrictions ease, with DiDi reporting an uptick in late-night and weekend trips.

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Melburnians across inner-city and coastal suburbs are flocking back to ridesharing as restrictions ease, with DiDi reporting an uptick in late-night and weekend trips.

The rideshare giant has revealed customer numbers are rising every week, with late nights Saturday and Sunday nights particular popular as people return home from social gatherings.

Northcote, Fitzroy and Toorak recorded some of the biggest increases across Melbourne while coastal areas such as Elwood, Brighton and Williamstown were also popular.

It comes as DiDi Australia will on Thursday announce new hygiene measures to protect its customers and drivers.

The new service, named DiDi Care, will require drivers to take and send photographs to an artificial intelligence program to verify they are wearing masks while working.

They will also be regularly checked to make sure they are carrying disinfectant and cleaning materials.

Didi rideshare driver Abdullah Mohammad has been providing special service for healthcare workers needing to get to and from work. Picture: Peter Ristevski
Didi rideshare driver Abdullah Mohammad has been providing special service for healthcare workers needing to get to and from work. Picture: Peter Ristevski

Drivers who sign on to the scheme will be reimbursed to stocking up on disinfectant products and trips may up to 5 per cent higher than normal journeys.

DiDi Australia general manager, Lyn Ma, said the new feature would allow drivers to safer travel options and generate more income.

“DiDi Care offers our riders and drivers extra peace of mind as people begin to reconnect face-to-face with their loved ones and return to their workplace and favourite cafes, bars and restaurants,” he said.

“We thank our valued driver-partners who have not only provided essential travel to

Australians during what has been a difficult time, but who continue to provide this support as

restrictions ease across Australia.

MoRE CORONAVIRUS NEWS

kieran.rooney@news.com.au

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Original URL: https://www.heraldsun.com.au/coronavirus/didi-launches-new-service-requiring-drivers-to-wear-masks-with-customers-numbers-on-the-rise/news-story/c5f36c8b4fb603e63ca78a2ad45c8a16