Salem auto driver creates ‘natural AC’ to beat summer heat

Salem: Passengers boarding 77-year-old R Subramani's autorickshaw will literally have a cooling effect on this sweltering summer heat in the city.A resident of Deivanai Nagar near Vennangodi Muniyappan Koil at Mamangam, Subramani has installed a ‘natural AC' in his auto using a novel method. He has lined the inside roof of the auto with thermal insulation, added a waterproof top layer, and covered the roof with straw and green paddy. He has also fitted a small motorised sprinkler system that sprays water over the roof through pipes, helping keep the vehicle cool through evaporation. Subramani has been earning a livelihood by driving auto for the past nine years; he was earlier a tailor. Besides regular rides, Subramani takes children to schools daily. Subramani says he modifies his auto every summer to make it more comfortable for passengers. Subramani's creatively modified "natural AC" auto, which is operated across the Salem city, has drawn appreciation from the public.