As many as six pink-autos today set out on a journey to offer safer ride to the vulnerable part of the population while six more vehicles are likely to be rolled out in next few days. The ambitious drive to offer safe commuting services was inaugurated by Traffic SP R R Singh.
“This (pink auto service) will help in reducing incidents of eve-teasing,” said the Traffic SP while rolling out the service. The drivers have been given learners license and after one month they will get permanent driving license. Dressed in pink the auto drivers have been assured of assistance by auto associations who have committed to support the women drivers if they land in dicey situation.
“We have asked our association members to always remain vigilant and help pink auto if the need arises,” maintained Dinesh Soni of Jharkhand Auto Diesel Association. The pink autorickshaws will be driven by women and will ply on two routes- Argora Chowk via Birsa Chowk to Main Road finally returning to Argora Chowk, Argora Chowk via Ratu Road to Jail More to Kanta Toli and will return to Argora Chowk via Main Road. The pink-autos will be on road from six in the morning till six in the evening. “The service has been launched from today but regular service will commence from tomorrow,” said Sunita, driver of pink-auto.
Incidentally, the ambitious service was delayed due problems in obtaining driving license besides threats of the service getting declared “illegal” by district authorities.