Karnataka – Bengaluru has recently introduced a fleet of electric autorickshaws (e-autos) Women-Driven E-Autos, aiming to enhance urban mobility and empower women in the city. This initiative not only provides sustainable transportation options but also promotes gender inclusivity in the public transport sector.
Empowering Women Through Women-Driven E-Autos
In a significant move towards women empowerment, various organizations in Bengaluru have launched programs to train and support women as e-auto drivers. For instance, Shishu Mandir, in collaboration with corporate partners, initiated a program where women from underprivileged backgrounds received training to operate e-autos. Participants like Flora, who previously worked as domestic help, have transitioned into driving e-autos, gaining financial independence and confidence. Flora shared that despite working long hours as a domestic help, she struggled financially. Now, as an e-auto driver, she experiences joy and confidence, having more control over her earnings and schedule.
Collaborative Efforts Enhancing Last-Mile Connectivity with the Women-Driven E-Autos
Collaborations between private companies and non-profit organizations have been instrumental in promoting women-driven e-autos. For example, greytHR, a leading HRMS provider, partnered with Shishu Mandir to offer financial literacy, professional skills, and mentorship to women e-auto drivers. Since June 2024, over 80 women have benefited from bi-weekly training sessions, with plans to reach 5,000 women by the end of 2025. This initiative equips participants with essential skills, enabling them to manage their earnings effectively and build resilience in their profession.
Integration of Women-Driven E-Autos with Metro Stations for Seamless Connectivity
To improve last-mile connectivity, e-autos driven by women have been launched at key metro stations in Bengaluru. In March 2024, a fleet of e-autos operated by women drivers was introduced at Yelachenahalli and Indiranagar Metro stations. Commuters can book these e-autos using the Metro Ride mobile app for travel within a 4 km radius of the stations. This service not only facilitates seamless connectivity for passengers but also provides women drivers with sustainable employment opportunities.
Overcoming Challenges and Changing Perceptions
Women e-auto drivers in Bengaluru have faced and overcome numerous challenges, including societal stereotypes and infrastructural issues. Despite these hurdles, many have embraced their roles with determination and resilience. For instance, Sangeetha, one of the women drivers, mentioned that navigating Bengaluru’s traffic is manageable compared to the personal struggles they have faced. Their experiences highlight the transformative impact of such initiatives on their lives, enabling them to redefine gender roles in the transportation sector.
Future Prospects and Expansion Plans
Encouraged by the success of these initiatives, plans are underway to expand the fleet of women-driven e-autos in Bengaluru. On International Women’s Day, 32 more women were provided with e-autos, bringing the total number of women e-auto drivers to 43. This expansion aims to create more employment opportunities for women and further improve last-mile connectivity in the city.
Growth Opportunities for the Women
Bengaluru’s introduction of women-driven e-autos signifies a progressive step towards sustainable urban mobility and women’s empowerment. Through collaborative efforts, training programs, and integration with existing public transport systems, these initiatives provide women with viable employment opportunities while enhancing the city’s transportation network. As these programs continue to grow, they hold the potential to inspire similar models in other regions, promoting inclusivity and sustainability in urban transport.
