No takers for pink e-rickshaws in Nashik even after one year

Nashik: Launched by the state govt on April 21 last year, the pink e-rickshaw scheme has seen very little response in Nashik district, with only three women taking up the vehicles despite around 1,000 applications.The scheme aims to ensure financial independence for women — particularly those from economically weaker sections, widows, and others in vulnerable circumstances — by enabling them to generate a steady family income. It also seeks to provide a safer commuting option for women passengers while supporting the transition to environmentally friendly electric vehicles."So far three women benefitted from the scheme. There are 10 others who are in the process of taking their licence following the training being given by the regional transport office. We will soon be distributing the 10 rickshaws to them," said Sunil Dusane, district women and child development officer.Under the scheme's financial model, the state govt provides a 20% subsidy on the total cost of the e-rickshaw, while the remaining amount must be arranged by the beneficiary.However, several applicants have backed out after learning the finer details of the financing structure. "It was given to understand that govt would be financing the autorickshaw for us. We were only required to make our contribution — 10% — while govt was to give 20%. But when we got into finer details, it came to the fore that 70% of the loan component has to be cleared by the beneficiary. This is why most of us have put the plan on hold," said one applicant.A senior official from the department said the terms and conditions were clearly communicated. "However, they filed their applications thinking the govt would change the plan. However, there has been no change other than the 10% contribution will be collected in equal instalments over 37 months. That is the only change so far, even as they have to clear the bank loan," he said.The women pointed out that the e-rickshaw's top speed of 30 kmph is too slow for city conditions. "Keeping aside the current situation where the roads have been dug up and traffic congestion is everywhere, the roads in the city are quite wide and in that case the passengers don't opt for the services," they said.