Uber added on Wednesday a panic button and tracking features to its taxi app in India after the U.S.-based company was banned in New Delhi last year over rape allegations against one of its drivers. The updated app now has a "send status" feature to enable passengers to share ride details with their contacts in real time. The app also has an "SOS" button to call the local police directly.

The company also said it plans to launch safety features in other countries soon.

Authorities in New Delhi banned Uber in December following the rape allegations and issued rules that require all taxis to be equipped with a physical panic button.

Uber resumed operations there in January and has since said it has stepped up background checks on all its India drivers. The app is available in several cities.

Uber is also fighting bans in France, Spain and South Korea for alleged violations including using unlicensed drivers.