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Next generation rickshaw in Guwahati
HEMANTA PHUKAN | Guwahati, January 11, 2012 16:14
Tags : Solar device | rikshaws | cycle | public transport |
Tags : Solar device | rikshaws | cycle | public transport |
In a step that defines another advancement towards the low-distance-city-travelers’ comfort and safety, The Centre for Rural Development has designed a rickshaw with solar energy device. With the developed Deep Rickshaw, now the commuters will be able to enjoy facilities like mobile recharge while moving towards their destinations, against a nominal fee. The Centre for Rural Development has launched the Deep Bahan, locally designed rickshaw, to improve the livelihood of the rickshaw pullers to build a sense of self-confidence.
Flagging off the special rickshaw popularly known as ‘Deep Bahan’, Rakesh Pandey, faculty of Olin College of Engineering, Boston, said that this new generation rickshaw is expected to help enhancing the income of the rickshaw pullers of the state. Pundey further said that technology must aid the underprivileged group of the society to increase their income level in various ways.
Travelers can now enjoy FM radio programmes during their journey with a fearless mind as there are safety front and rear lights. However, a section of the public fear that such a rickshaw with music system may increase accidents in traffic packed arteries of the city.
Some commuters opined that introduction of FM radio in the rickshaw might be negative impact in the jam-packed roads of the city. The pointed out that the songs of radio might divert the concentration of the rickshaw pullers which lead to any accident. One Mohan Bora said, “Introduction of the rickshaw with solar energy supply is undoubtedly a good effort. But I am afraid that it may increase the number of road accidents.”
In the inaugural meeting, founder of the Centre, Dr Pradip Kumar Sarma said, "over the years, the scheme has covered as many as 5,500 people who are provided Deep Bahans and momo carts." He further said, "their organization has developed such rickshaw in the walk of global warming and pollution." The Yeal School of Management, the Olin College of Technology and the Masachuset Institute of Technology have extended technical and other kinds of support in this regard.
Issue Dated: Feb 5, 2017
