In a first of its kind, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) has launched electric auto-rickshaws in Thane on a trial basis in collaboration with the Central Railways. The majority of drivers for these rickshaws are women.
This decision has been taken to promote electric mobility. Besides, women drivers have been appointed to run the e-autos, which will be given support and will run at regular city fares. In addition to this, the CR has also tied up with the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and Tata Power to proliferate electric vehicle charging points. A battery replacement service has also been introduced.
There is a plan to have a fleet of 30 electric autos, of which 14-15 are in already operation. The idea is to make a sustainable model for last-mile connectivity from the railway stations. The set-up has been well-organised with security and manpower.
Officials stated that in near future the plan to run the e-autos from 6 am to midnight.
According to reports, the electric autos and the charging centre also have a dedicated parking area adjoining platform no. 1 at Thane station, at the base of the bridge that ferries public transport buses in the east.
The first one at Mumbai CSMT was the result of their idea, and later the CR took it to other railway stations including Dadar, Parel, Byculla and Thane. For the second phase, tenders have been floated for stations including Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT), Bhandup, Panvel and Kalyan. Areas at the entry-exit points of railway stations with parking facilities have been earmarked for the charging stations as per availability.
There are plans to increase the number of autos to 70 in the near future.
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