The City of Allahabad has about 50,000 rickshaws; the rickshaw “Khatal” (2000 approximately) owners release rickshaw to the pullers at rate of Rs. 25 to 35 per day per 12 hours. Most of the rickshaw pullers are not in a position to own it. Besides, there is always a risk of accident of self and rickshaw as well as rickshaw passenger(s).There is also a risk of theft of rickshaw.

AAK has so far provided 250 improved rickshaws on soft credit in coordination with the National Bank. The drivers are able to change a slightly higher rate due to its improved look and are able to earn more from these new rickshaws. The rickshaw pullers are insured against accidental death for Rs. One lakh and Medi-claim benefits for twenty five thousand. After successful payments of installments they will automatically become the owners of rickshaw.

Focal areas for this intervention are:

• Dignity of the rickshaw driver
• Ownership rights
• Bank Linkages
• Social Security