E-autos driven by women launched at two metro stations in Bengaluru

BENGALURU: To enhance last-mile sustainable connectivity at Namma Metro stations, a fleet of electric-autos launched was launched at Yelachenahalli and Indiranagar Metro stations. These e-autos are run by women drivers.
An initiative of Alstom in collaboration with WRI India is aimed at promoting usage of public transport and empowering women. Commuters can book these autos using Metro Ride mobile app to travel in the radius of 4 kms from the metro stations.The services were launched on Wednesday.
E-auto driver Saraswati, a resident of Konanakunte, said, “My family members are very supportive of me driving an autorickshaw. Passengers also appreciate me for driving an auto. There have been many instances of them taking selfies with me. I am happy that driving the autorickshaw helps me to meet my family expenses.”
Alstom India MD Olivier Loison said Low Emission Access to Public Transport (LEAP) is an initiative to encourage and include women in the urban mobility landscape. Under the initiative, 25 women have been trained to drive e-autos and obtain required licenses.
Olivier Loison said, “Namma Metro will play a significant role in easing the on–road movement challenges in Bengaluru. As the leader of sustainable mobility, there could be no better way for us to encourage public transport than LEAP. Through our partnership with WRI India and Metro Ride, we have taken a noteworthy step in bridging the last mile connectivity challenge with this program.”