Pune: The state government of Maharashtra has lifted the ban on e-rickshaws in Pune city, which had previously restricted their operation on 14 major roads to prevent traffic congestion.

With this decision, e-rickshaws, including the women-driven "Pink Rickshaws," are now permitted to operate on all roads in Pune, marking a significant step in providing employment to women and promoting safer travel for female passengers.

Under the state's ‘Pink E-Rickshaw’ scheme, which was announced in the state budget, 1,400 pink e-rickshaws will soon be seen on Pune’s roads.

These e-rickshaws will be driven exclusively by women, creating equal job opportunities and contributing to the socio-economic empowerment of women in the city.

The initiative, which is expected to benefit 10,000 women across 17 cities in Maharashtra, aims to encourage self-employment among women.

Women drivers participating in the scheme will receive a 20% subsidy on the total cost of the e-rickshaw from the state government. Additionally, they will be eligible for loans covering 70% of the cost, repayable over five years, with the remaining 10% being a personal contribution.

Initially, traffic police had imposed restrictions on e-rickshaws due to their lower speed of 25 km/h, banning them from operating on 14 major roads in Pune. However, with the government's recent decision to lift the ban, pink rickshaws will now have unrestricted access across the city.

The 'Pink E-Rickshaw' scheme also includes specific eligibility criteria, such as an annual family income cap of ₹3 lakh, age limits for applicants between 18 and 35 years, and possession of a valid driver’s license. Preference will be given to women living below the poverty line, although all women are encouraged to apply.