Mumbai is set to introduce 1,400 pink electric autos exclusively for female drivers. This initiative, spearheaded by the city’s transport authorities, aims to empower women, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds, by providing them with a secure and sustainable livelihood.
The new scheme, slated to commence with the allocation of permits, prioritises widows, divorcées, orphans, and economically disadvantaged women. A dedicated website for online permit applications will be launched shortly, facilitating the process for interested candidates. The eligibility criteria stipulate that applicants must be women aged between 18 and 35 with a valid driving licence. The government will offer a 20% subsidy on the purchase of each e-auto. Prospective owners will need to contribute 10% of the vehicle’s cost, with the remaining 70% covered by bank loans. This financial model aims to make the e-autos accessible to a broader spectrum of women, fostering economic empowerment and enhancing safety on the roads.
Despite the positive reception from many quarters, the scheme has encountered resistance from some union leaders. Critics argue that the restriction to female drivers might lead to operational inefficiencies, particularly in managing shift work. They contend that allowing male drivers to operate these vehicles during off-peak times could optimise usage and revenue. Nonetheless, the government has maintained its stance and directed the regional transport offices to enforce compliance strictly. City activists have praised the initiative, noting its potential to significantly improve the safety and convenience of women commuters. The introduction of these pink e-autos is seen as a response to the current shortfall in public transport capacity and is expected to address some of the gaps left by the BEST buses, which have been struggling to meet demand.
The existing fleet of autos, introduced between 2017 and 2018, are salmon-orange, but the new pink e-autos align with a trend seen in other regions, such as Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Goa, where similar schemes have been implemented. To further ensure the safety of both drivers and passengers, the pink e-autos will be equipped with modern amenities, including GPS tracking, panic buttons, and other safety features. This initiative not only promises to create new employment opportunities for women but also aims to enhance the overall safety and efficiency of public transportation in Mumbai.
