As part of the initiative, women are receiving operational training, and 244 participants have been issued driving licences.

UP Women SHG Members Drive E-Rickshaws to Ensure Safe Commute and Earn Income

The Uttar Pradesh government has launched the ‘Safe Mobility Program,’ a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at empowering women through employment and providing safe transportation for female commuters. The program focuses on women members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) who will operate e-rickshaws to ensure secure travel to schools, workplaces, and other essential destinations.

Initially, 1,000 e-rickshaws are being provided across five districts: Ayodhya, Gorakhpur, Varanasi, Kaushambi, and Jhansi. The program is set to expand to additional districts, including Lucknow, Prayagraj, Mirzapur, Bhadohi, Sonbhadra, Deoria, Lakhimpur Kheri, and Sitapur.

As part of the initiative, women are receiving operational training, and 244 participants have been issued driving licences. Across the initial districts, 119 women have become entrepreneurs by managing e-rickshaws, while 629 others have completed training programs.

The initiative is being implemented under the Uttar Pradesh State Rural Livelihoods Mission, with technical assistance from Development Alternatives. Participating women are earning an average annual income exceeding Rs 3 lakh, reflecting the economic impact of the program on rural families.

The Safe Mobility Program is expected to improve access to education for girls, provide safer commuting options for working women, and create new employment opportunities in villages.