Maharashtra govt introduces 5% reservation of permits for women auto drivers

The first batch of women auto rickshaw drivers started work on Saturday after the Maharashtra government reserved 5% of rickshaw permits for women.

One of the women, Susheela Mane, told the news agency that she used to work as a cook. "I don't have a husband. But my mother-in-law was supportive and I completed my training in 15 days," she said.

Mumbai already has a private taxi service that targets female commuters, and now public transport with women drivers will be a welcome addition.