Kerala   

50 years on the road

It is half-a-century since autorickshaws first started plying on the roads of Kozhikode city. Under the aegis of the Private Vehicles Engineering Workers Union (AITUC) a number of programmes are planned to commemorate the 50 years of excellent service rendered by the three-wheeler transport vehicle since it first appeared on city roads in 1957, and had then evoked the curiosity of the general public.

Fourteen years back women driven autorickshaws had appeared on the city roads on an experimental basis.

But soon the women drivers proved that they could perform the task hitherto considered purely a male occupation with ease. The women drivers too gained the confidence of the public for their accident-free record and adherence to traffic rules and stipulations.

Autorickshaw drivers, however, feel they have not received their due from the authorities concerned despite their creditable record primarily due to the fact that there is no organised union for them.

The 50 year celebrations on July 7 would include honouring of 10 senior auto-drivers besides a family get-together and discussions on organising themselves on a more sound foundation.

Maleeha Raghaviah

Printer friendly page  
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

Stories in this Section

CBI busts inter-State vehicle insurance racket
50 years on the road
On common ground
Naval prowess
Health concerns
New company for knowledge park
Briefly

Copyright © 2007, The Hindu. Republication or redissemination of the contents of this screen are expressly prohibited without the written consent of The Hindu