e-rickshaws steadily gain ground among people, tourists

Amritsar, August 14

The pollution-free battery operated electric e-rickshaws are slowly and steadily gaining ground in the city. E-rickshaws are a hit among the people, especially tourists and foreigners who prefer them instead of travelling by auto-rickshaws, which cause air and noise pollution.

Ayush Lohia, an official of Lohia Auto Industries involved in manufacturing e-rickshaws and bikes, said not only the popularity but the lower VAT on electric vehicles had also paved the way for the domestic players to enter the Punjab market. “Moreover, cities like Amritsar where life runs through narrow streets and has historical relevance, it seems best to drive electric bikes and e-rickshaws,” he said.

Earlier, China-made eco-rickshaws had entered the market around six years ago. A ride in the e-rickshaw costs between Rs 10 to Rs 40 depending upon length of the route. Costing Rs 1.08 lakh each, these six-seat rickshaws draw power from four batteries. The vehicle runs for eight hours once charged and is capable of covering nearly 100 km in one go. — TNS