Montra Electric, the electric vehicle (EV) division of the Murugappa Group, has been selected as one of the original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) for the Rejuvenation of Auto-rickshaws in Amritsar through Holistic Intervention (RAAHI) project. This endeavor is a component of the CITIIS program initiated by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, aiming to innovate, integrate, and sustain city investments.
Launched in 2019, the RAAHI project aims to replace more than 12,000 aging diesel-powered three-wheelers. The beneficiaries are meticulously chosen and evaluated by the Amritsar Smart City Ltd team. Each beneficiary under the RAAHI program is entitled to a subsidy of INR 1,40,000. If they decide to purchase the Montra Electric Super Auto outright, the entire subsidy will be credited to their account. This subsidy is provided in addition to the incentives offered by the FAME scheme. Female drivers will receive a 90% subsidy on pink electric autos, and their families are eligible for skill development courses from NSDC, as stated in a company press release.
KK Paul, the Managing Director of TI Clean Mobility (TICMPL), expressed excitement about participating in the RAAHI Project as an OEM partner. The company eagerly looks forward to supplying its advanced electric three-wheelers to beneficiaries as part of this initiative. Recognizing the pivotal role of three-wheelers in facilitating last-mile transportation, Montra Electric is dedicated to improving last-mile mobility through innovative design and superior performance. The company’s environmentally friendly mobility solutions are poised to transform transportation in India.
The RAAHI project aims to reduce city air pollution levels and is an integral component of CITIIIS. This initiative encompasses six interconnected elements: establishing numerous electric vehicle charging stations, strengthening the three-wheeler industry, creating employment opportunities, enhancing pedestrian safety, improving first and last-mile connectivity, and promoting cleaner air quality.
To qualify for the benefits offered by the RAAHI program, prospective drivers must be members of the Amritsar Auto-Rickshaw Drivers Cooperative Society. They are required to possess either an Aadhaar card or a voter card, as well as the registration certificate for their previous auto, a valid driver’s license, and a membership slip from the society.
