Rickshaws at Tulip Festival
I am writing with reference to letter: "Re-designing rickshaw" by Sikander Ahmed (June 4).
During the Ottawa Tulip Festival last May, a set of pedal and battery-powered rickshaws were used to transport tourists around the festival grounds. The rickshaw drivers can use the pedal like traditional rickshaws or let a small battery run when tired or facing a steep incline. It can carry two passengers like Bangladeshi rickshaws. Both passengers and the rickshaw driver are covered at the top to provide protection from sun and rain.
These dual-powered rickshaws can provide pollution-free transportation without the shortcomings of traditional rickshaws in Bangladesh. They are likely to be a little more expensive. But the rickshaw owners, who are likely to be different from rickshaw drivers, can make greater profit in the long run. Banks can also help by providing micro-credits to rickshaw drivers to buy these amazing dual-powered rickshaws.
Those who are interested can get in touch with the Ottawa Tulip Festival authorities(www. ottawatulipfestival.com). Rickshaws are an important part of the economic life in Bangladesh. They also provide zero-pollution transportation for millions. Mr. Sikander Ahmed has provided some interesting suggestions which should be followed up.
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