In a unique endeavor to ensure economic empowerment of women, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu today flagged off ‘She Auto’ services in Vijayawada. Painted blue and yellow these she-autos are expected to be special attraction in the city. Though not first, the experiment will go a long way in not empowering the women but also provide a safe travel in the city, said an official commenting on the new venture of TDP government.
Under the government’s flagship ‘She Auto’ scheme, the Chief Minister distributed auto rickshaws to 49 women worth Rs 1 crore. The government has provided 7 percent subsidy to each auto that originally costs Rs 1,91,000. The remaining amount can be paid in 40 installments at a monthly price of Rs 4,500. Officials have estimated that the beneficiaries can earn up to Rs 18,000 per month.
The Chief Minister said, “Since these autos run on CNG, they are environment-friendly. This scheme will also provide security to women in the city.” In this regard, women auto drivers felicitated the Chief Minister. Vijayawada MP Kesineni Nani, MLA Gadde Rammohan Rao, Krishna district collector Ahmad Babu and other officials were present.
