CM to inaugurate solar power rickshaws on Oct 2

New Delhi, Aug 22 (UNI) The solar power cycle rickshaws would run in the Chandni Chowk area as Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit is set to inaugurate them in central Delhi on October 2.

During a presentation before the Chief Minister on redevelopment of road from Red Fort to Fatehpuri Masjid as per plan prepared by the Ministry of Science and Technology, Chandni Chowk MP and Union Minister of Science and Technology Kapil Sibal requested Ms Dikshit to inaugurate the rickshaws in Chandni Chowk on October 2.

The rickshaw would weight 210 kg and able to run at a speed of 15/20 km per hour. It would be run by a solar battery, which would suffice for a journey of 70 km. The battery would take five hours to be charged with the help of solar panels in the charging unit to be made functional above the Delhi Metro Stations.

The rickshaws, to be termed as 'Green Rickshaws', would come to the charging station for replacement of existing battery.

It is expected that these rickshaws would ply within radius of three km from Metro Stations. The DMRC is separately being approached to make available their space before Metro Stations to establish solar panels.

The solar powered rickshaws in Chandni Chowk would be plied as a pilot project.

The rickshaws would be environment-friendly and best suitable for a locality like Chandni Chowk. One rickshaw would cost approximately Rs 17000.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms Dikshit expressed confidence that the rickshaws would cater to the needs of local people and visitors.

It would also go a long way in eliminating man-pulled rickshaws.

Mr Sibal said the Supreme Court would be requested to grant permission for plying of such rickshaws in Chandni Chowk.

UNI AR SW RAI1811