The Women and Child Department in Maharashtra has unveiled a plan to introduce pink e-rickshaws driven by women in 10 cities, including Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur. The initiative, known as ‘Pink Rickshaws,’ aims to empower unemployed women by providing a 20% government subsidy to purchase e-rickshaws. Applicants will contribute 10% of the cost, with the remaining 70% covered by bank loans.
During the presentation to Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Ajit Pawar, Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare emphasized that the scheme not only offers a livelihood opportunity for women in urban areas but also addresses the need for safe transportation options. Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar responded positively to the proposal.
Commissioner of the Women and Child Development Department, Dr. Prashant Narnaware, stated that the initial phase of the scheme aims to introduce 5,000 pink e-rickshaws in the first year. These rickshaws will operate in various cities, including Mumbai, Thane, Navi Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur, among others.
The proposed plan involves women contributing only 10% of the rickshaw cost, with a 20% subsidy from the state government, and the remaining 70% covered through bank loans. The choice of e-rickshaws aligns with their environmental friendliness and lower maintenance requirements.
