Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Mar 8: Just a few years ago, driving an auto rickshaw was something Shilpa Ramesh Vantekar had never imagined doing. Today, the 43-year-old from Divar Island in Goa is among the women steering the state’s distinctive Pink Autos, transporting women passengers, senior citizens and schoolchildren while carving out a path of independence and dignity.

The bright pink autos have gradually become a familiar sight on Goa’s roads. Introduced in 2022, the initiative aims to provide a safer and more comfortable travel option for women and children by employing women drivers.

Shilpa, one of the first drivers in the initiative, says the service has earned the trust of the public.

“People now know us and trust us, and that's a good feeling. We feel a strong sense of responsibility too, and are happy to take women passengers, elderly people and schoolchildren in our autos,” she said.

Another driver, Nanda Jambotkar, 52, from Corlim in Old Goa, recalled that the idea of women driving autos was initially unfamiliar.

“In the beginning, it was a little scary because everything was new. But today I feel very independent. I don’t worry about travelling long distances anymore — I have become confident and self-reliant,” she said.

The Pink Auto initiative began on a small scale with just eight vehicles. Over time, the number has grown, with more than 20 pink autos now operating across different parts of the state, reflecting increasing acceptance and trust among commuters.

Driver Shilpa Sawant said the service largely runs on advance bookings rather than waiting at auto stands.

“We don’t have a fixed auto stand, so passengers usually call us directly and book our services for a specific date and time. That’s how we plan our day. The service charges around ?20 per kilometre,” she explained.

For many of the women behind the wheel, the pink auto represents more than just a livelihood — it symbolises empowerment and social change.

Anuja Arvind Dicholkar, who has been driving a pink auto for the past two years, said the job has transformed her life.

“This work has made me atmanirbhar. I can save money, invest in my children’s education and support my family. But most importantly, the respect I receive from people makes me feel confident,” she said.

What started as a small initiative has now grown into a visible symbol of women’s empowerment on Goa’s roads.