Goa’s Pink Auto Initiative Empowers Women Drivers

What started as a small experiment is now changing lives on Goa’s roads. The Pink Auto initiative, launched in 2022, provides women drivers with opportunities to offer safe and reliable transport for women, children, and senior citizens. The program promotes passenger safety, independence, and respect for women behind the wheel.

Driving Change Through Women Leadership

For Shilpa Ramesh Vantekar, 43, driving a pink auto was once unimaginable. Today, she ferries women, schoolchildren, and elderly passengers across Goa while gaining confidence and a sense of responsibility.

“People now know us and trust us, and that is a good feeling,” Shilpa says. “We feel responsible for our passengers and happy to provide safe transport.”

Nanda Jambotkar, 52, from Corlim in Old Goa, recalls the early days when women drivers were still a new sight. “In the beginning, it felt intimidating because everything was new,” she says. “Now I feel independent and confident. I can travel long distances and manage my work without worry.”

Expansion of the Pink Auto Service

The initiative started with eight autos and has steadily grown. Today, more than 20 pink autos operate across Goa, showing the trust passengers place in the service.

Drivers like Shilpa Sawant work primarily through advance bookings. “Passengers call us directly to book for a specific date and time. This helps us plan our day efficiently. The service charges around ₹20 per kilometre,” she explains.

Empowerment Beyond Transportation

For many women, the pink auto represents more than just a job. It is a way to gain financial independence and social recognition.

Anuja Arvind Dicholkar, a driver for two years, shares, “This work has made me atmanirbhar. I can save money, support my family, invest in my children’s education, and earn respect from the community. That confidence is priceless.”

The initiative shows how small programs can reshape local economies, improve public safety, and empower women in traditionally male-dominated roles.