Pink E-Rickshaw Initiative

April 23, 2025

The Pink E-Rickshaw initiative launched in Maharashtra aims to empower women by providing them with eco-friendly transportation options. Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar recently announced the distribution of these electric rickshaws as feeder services at metro stations, airports, and tourist destinations. Following a successful pilot in Pune, the scheme is set to expand to other cities in the state.

Scheme Details

The initiative plans to distribute 10,000 pink e-rickshaws across eight districts. The primary objective is to financially and socially empower women. The scheme focuses on women aged 20 to 50, particularly targeting widows, divorcees, and those from low-income backgrounds.

Financial Assistance and Subsidies

The scheme includes financial support. The central government provides a subsidy of ₹25,000 per vehicle, while the state government contributes ₹75,000. Beneficiaries must make a 10% down payment, with the remaining 70% financed through low-interest loans from banks.

Training and Support

Kinetic Green, a partner in the initiative, offers free driving training and assistance in obtaining driving licenses. They also commit to setting up a robust charging infrastructure, including 1,500 charging stations across participating districts. Each e-rickshaw comes with a five-year warranty and an Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC).

Infrastructure Development

To support the initiative, plans are underway to establish over 1,000 charging stations in Pune. The government is also negotiating partnerships with ride-sharing platforms like Ola and Uber to integrate these e-rickshaws into their services.

Impact on Women’s Empowerment

The initiative aims to enhance women’s confidence and independence. By providing a reliable source of income, it encourages women to take charge of their lives. Testimonials from beneficiaries highlight the transformative impact of this scheme on their livelihoods and self-esteem.

Safety Features and Vehicle Specifications

Each pink e-rickshaw is equipped with GPS navigation and features that ensure passenger safety. They can accommodate four passengers and have a range of 120 km per charge. The vehicles are designed for comfort, with dual suspension and high ground clearance.

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