Women in Maharashtra to Get Pink E-Rickshaws in New Year; Over 3,200 Applications Received
60 Pink E-Rickshaws To Be Distributed To Pune Women On April 21
Pune: The Maharashtra Department of Women and Child Development’s ‘Pink E-Rickshaw’ scheme, aimed at empowering women through employment opportunities, has received an overwhelming response. As of now, 3,255 women across eight districts have applied, with 744 applications already approved. The scheme’s rollout will begin in the new year, with the pink e-rickshaws expected to hit the roads soon.
The scheme, initially delayed due to the Assembly election code of conduct, has now resumed its registration and screening process. Out of the eight participating districts, Nagpur has received the highest number of applications (968), followed by Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (560) and Nashik (530).
District-Wise Breakdown of Applications:
- Pune: 331 applications, 73 approved
- Kolhapur: 118 applications, 48 approved
- Solapur: 285 applications, 86 approved
- Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: 560 applications, 111 approved
- Nashik: 530 applications, 222 approved
- Ahilyanagar: 316 applications, 54 approved
- Nagpur: 968 applications, 102 approved
- Amravati: 147 applications, 48 approved
The scheme, part of the state’s budgetary provisions, aims to benefit 10,000 women across 17 districts. Women will receive financial assistance for purchasing e-rickshaws, with beneficiaries required to pay only 10% of the cost. The state government will cover 20%, while the remaining 70% will be financed through partnered banks. Beneficiary selection may involve a lottery system if applications exceed the target.
Implementation Details:
- District-level committees, led by district collectors, will oversee the scheme.
- Applications will be processed through the Regional Transport Office (RTO), which will also issue special permits for the rickshaws.
- Dedicated charging stations, parking spots, and routes have been designated for these vehicles.
The pink e-rickshaws are intended exclusively for women drivers, promoting self-reliance and economic independence. Commissioner Prashant Narnavre of the Women and Child Development Department expressed confidence that the project would transform the lives of women across Maharashtra.
Pune RTO has begun accepting applications and issuing permits, ensuring smooth implementation of the scheme. With 744 approved applications so far, the initiative is set to create significant employment opportunities for women in the state.
