MCC training women civic workers to drive e-autorikshaws for garbage collection

MCC training women civic workers to drive e-autorikshaws for garbage collection

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, May 5, 2024: Up to 15 women pourakarmikas are currently undergoing training in e-autorickshaw driving, as part of a plan by the Mangaluru City Corporation to enable them to conduct door-to-door waste collection using these vehicles.

As part of the Swachh Bharath Mission, the MCC has received 24 e-autorickshaws, 107 hydraulic jeep tippers, 30 tipper trucks, and 16 compactors for domestic waste collection.

The training is being provided by supervisors Ajith, Litesh, Subash, and Satish, with the expectation that these women will begin collecting garbage using e-autorickshaws within the next 30 days.

MCC Commissioner C.L. Anand expressed that he was inspired by a report of women operating autorickshaws in the city, prompting him to initiate training for select women pourakarmikas. He emphasized the aim to empower these women and elevate their dignity, with plans to expand the training to more pourakarmikas.

Mr. Kumar highlighted that these women will navigate narrow city roads where jeep tippers cannot reach. Initially, two women will operate each vehicle, gradually transitioning to independent operation after acclimatizing to the task. These women already possess Learner’s Licences, with full driving licences obtained prior to commencing garbage collection duties.

Dyamavva, a pourakarmika, expressed appreciation for the MCC’s initiative, noting the increasing presence of women in various fields. She acknowledged the challenge of utilizing these vehicles in the city’s varied terrain but expressed confidence in overcoming it.

Ms. Guddappa, a mother of two, shared her experience of learning to operate the e-autorickshaw over the past month. Admitting to some nervousness due to her lack of prior experience with two-wheelers, she expressed determination to master the new vehicle despite temporarily pausing her usual work duties.