Women attracted to driving three-wheeler provided training

Karnali, May 26: The women in Karnali region are found gradually attracted to driving a three-wheeler 'auto' in recent times.

Descended from the hilly and mountainous districts by breaking social barriers, the number of women finding niche in driving auto-rickshaws has increased in Surkhet.

There are over 100 women auto drivers in Surkhet alone. With skills and diligence, they opted for driving a light vehicle over short distance so that they could manage their livelihood and even begin saving.

In this connection, the Social Development Ministry of Karnali Province has provided training to 54 women auto drivers in a bid to ensure their self-reliance with occupational sustainability.

The women attending the training also spoke openly on the risks associated with this auto driving, social perspective towards them and challenges they face in daily life.

Auto driver Sushila Sapkota viewed the women were not that weak the society regard, but bold and diligent to face challenges and make themselves employed.

Mayor of Birendranagar Municipality Mohan Maya Dhakal suggested women auto drivers that they continued the profession with commitment.

Similarly, they were suggested keeping proper care of their persons and children's health. Gynecologist and obstetrician at Karnali Province Hospital, Dr Lalit Shahi, said the women drivers could also undergo health check-up from time to time.

Chief of Highway and Traffic Management Office in Surkhet, SP Mukunda Prasad Rijal, informed that the training would be beneficial for the female auto drivers to be disciplined.  Public awareness on road safety is equally vital.

Another trainer was Khagendra Prakash Gaire, an official from the Health Service Division at Social Development Ministry of the province. He shared information on mental health issues and non-communicable diseases to the women drivers.

Gaire also informed that the government hospitals were providing 12 types of medicine for free of cost. (RSS)