The pink route to empowering women

On March 31, Rotary District 3234 will be distributing its second batch of pink autos to beneficiaries it has selected with a fine-tooth comb

These bright pink autos have become a familiar sight on Chennai roads. Driven by women and catering primarily to women and children, pink autos are on the rise thanks to various social organisations and a scheme promoted by the Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department of the Tamil Nadu Government to fund women (partially, in most cases) to own and drive these vehicles.

The pink fleet ticks several boxes: women empowerment, women’s participation in the labour force, promoting a clean environment (CNG is used as fuel) and breaking gender stereotypes.

According to ballpark figure, Chennai must be having more than 500 pink women autorickshaw drivers and this number is only on the rise.

On March 31, Rotary District 3234 will be distributing its second batch of pink autos, close to 27 (its second major drive after it launched the project in August 2025 to distribute 100 pink autos in an event held at Chennai Trade Centre).

The District engages the service of ANEW (Association for Non-Traditional Employment for Women) to identify and train deserving women. Basics of martial arts and communication skills are also covered under the training.

“Our beneficiaries have to update us at least once a month about the status of their EMIs. So far, we have 85 who are prompt in doing that,” says Siva Ilangovan, chairman – Pink Auto Project, Rotary District 3234.