Jorawer Singh, Chandigarh, August 22,2009: General (Retd.) Dr. S.F.Rodrigues, PVSM VSM, Punjab Governor and Administrator, Union Territory, Chandigarh, assigned a novel Project of Modernizing of Cycle Rickshaws to PEC University of Technology Chandigarh on Friday. General Rodrigues, in a meeting with Principal Director & faculty members of the PEC University of Technology expressed his satisfaction over the positive outcomes of various innovative programmes being undertaken for improving Public Transport System in the Union Territory. Indicating further that the Administration has a plan to introduce solar powered rickshaws to make the vehicle economically viable & comfortable, he said “The proposed design of Cycle Rickshaws will reduce the human toil of Rickshaw Pullers and making their life easier besides giving a quality service to the ordinary folk and low budgeted tourists.” Sharing his concern about the traffic hazards and congestion on City roads, General Rodrigues was hopeful about the outcome of series of long term and short term programmes under implementation including the proposed Mass Rapid Transport System and reiterated to remain focused on promoting environment friendly transport system with better comfort. Coaxing the project team to introduce innovative technologies, he advised them to conduct a proper survey and to take the views of Rickshaw Pullers and other stakeholders and to come out with a light weight rickshaw that may help a Rickshaw pullers put in more hours enabling them to enhance their income without affecting health. Asking the Project Team to complete this pilot project in a time bound, workable and acceptable manner keeping city traditional setup in mind, General was all in for empowering people and keeping city pollution free.