Tribune News Service
Ropar, June 2
Ropar will start the eco-cab service on the lines of existing ones in Fazilka, Amritsar and Patiala. The Punjab Tourism Development Board will launch the eco-cabs at Ropar in collaboration with the Rotary Club, Ropar.
Under this collaboration, the club will identify beneficiaries and will provide a sponsorship of Rs 500 needed for seeking loan from the government. Basic aim behind the launch of the eco-cabs is to provide employment opportunities to the poor, which are better and safer than the usual rickshaws.
An eco-cab is an improvised version of rickshaw with low floor, lightweight, maintenance free, FM Radio, water bottle, magazine holder, more space to store luggage, improved road safety features and dial a rickshaw facility in big cities.
Cost of an eco-cab is Rs 11, 257 and beneficiary will contribute only Rs 500, while rest will be given as loan. “We will identify the prospective beneficiaries by next week,” said club president Dr RS Parmar.
Aspirants would be provided loan, which can be repaid in easy monthly instalments. The rickshaw owners can also get benefit from exhibiting advertisements. However, some of the people have been apprehensive about the success of the eco-cabs in the town.
“The Patiala city has got lukewarm response, but we hope its better in Ropar,” added the officials.
