WhatsApp service for delivery of essentials launched by Karnataka CM was conceptualised by Bengaluru techie

To limit public movement in Bengaluru as it is a red zone with over 100 cases of coronavirus, Karnataka CM BS Yediyurappa launched a WhatsApp helpline to purchase groceries, medicines, bakery foods and vegetables. The concept was first thought of by a techie in Bengaluru South before it was taken further.

Karthik Bhat, a techie, explained that in high risk population area of over 60 people living in a small, residents are supported by small kirana stores and technology is not used much, but now WhatsApp platform has played a major role with the concept linking such groups.

All people need to do is just send “Hi” to a dedicated number or call them and the system automatically starts to respond. The public get their choice of purchase and local stores are connected. Delivery partners also have been roped in to take orders and deliver them. The maximum time limit to deliver is 24 hours.