Abhijith N Kolpe

Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi

Udupi, Jun 24: An auto-rickshaw driver hailing from Manipal has come up with an innovative idea to tackle threats posed by the coronavirus. His idea has been widely appreciated by the general public.

Basheer Ahmed (55), an auto-rickshaw driver, who happens to be a resident of Manipal, has improvised an auto-rickshaw which will help the passengers to ensure cleanliness and hygiene before boarding the auto. He runs his three-wheeler at Rajeeva Nagar, Manipal.

Basheer, who was earlier running a garage in Saudi Arabia for 25 years had returned back to his native place two years back. Utilizing his experience, Basheer has renovated his auto-rickshaw by installing a water hose, a six-litre water tank, sanitizer and a partition between the driver and the passenger.

Speaking to Daijiworld, Basheer said, "As I was running a garage in Saudi, I had an idea about renovating vehicles. In these times of corona outbreak, I have come up with an idea to modify my auto-rickshaw which will help the passengers while boarding my auto-rickshaw.

He also said, "Safety of the passengers is very important. Keeping in mind this requirement, I have installed a water tap, water tank, and sanitizer in my auto-rickshaw. So before boarding the auto-rickshaw, the passengers should wash their hands and apply sanitizer to their hands. Wearing of the mask is compulsory before boarding. At a time I only carry one or two passengers," he explained.