Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)

Mangaluru, Jan 4: The initiative to collect garbage using electric auto-rickshaws in the city’s narrow lanes has encountered several setbacks, with operations running only partially. In some wards, despite the allocation of these vehicles, they are reportedly not functioning.

To address the issue of large garbage trucks being unable to access narrow areas, the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) introduced 24 electric auto-rickshaws six months ago. These vehicles are currently operational in selected areas like State Bank, Hampankatta, and Pacchanady.

The plan also aimed to reduce the additional burden of employing drivers by training women civic workers, who are already part of MCC’s workforce, to operate the vehicles. However, the initiative has not achieved the desired results as many women civic workers claim they were not adequately trained to drive on roads.

MCC officials have noted that using women drivers for these vehicles requires additional staff to assist with garbage collection. "Due to staff shortages, the plan is not functioning as expected," an official explained.

MCC commissioner Anand C L who highlighted the benefits of these electric auto-rickshaws, said, “Since they are electrically operated, maintenance is easier, and fuel costs are eliminated. Each vehicle has a load capacity of 250 kg, making it suitable for collecting roadside garbage, especially in narrow lanes. Currently, selected wards are using these vehicles effectively.”

Despite the initiative’s potential, operational challenges and staffing issues continue to hinder its success.