They are slow, but steady, compared to auto rickshaws, do not consume fuel, hence eco-friendly. Introduced in 2014 only for operation between Rock Garden and Sukhna Lake, battery-operated rickshaws, better known as e-rickshaws, are slowly taking over the city roads. Be it the two bus stands in Sector 17 and 43, tourist hotspots, Panjab University or other colleges and schools, the dainty and non-polluting e-rickshaw is on its way to become a commuter’s favourite ride.
The Union Territory administration is also giving this eco-friendly and noiseless vehicle a boost by planning to install solar-operated battery charging points at several places in the city. Besides, Chandigarh Municipal Corporation provides 4 per cent subsidy on purchase of an e-trike.