In the bustling city of Pune, the humble autorickshaw has transformed into a high-tech, mobile campaign machine for political candidates. Faced with tight schedules and the need for wide voter outreach, aspirants are increasingly turning to three-wheelers, but with a modern twist. This election season, the method has evolved significantly, incorporating GPS tracking, Bluetooth loudspeakers, and LED display boards to create a more organized and effective campaigning strategy.
The Economics of Mobile Campaigning
On average, candidates are spending between Rs 3,000 and Rs 5,000 per autorickshaw per day. This investment covers more than just the vehicle's movement. According to operators, the charges primarily account for the driver's remuneration. However, additional costs for battery usage, fuel, dearness allowance, and other operational expenses are often levied separately by service providers.
Santosh Adhav, an operator offering specialized rickshaw campaign services, confirmed the strong demand. "Candidates from different parties, including independents, are using this facility to reach their core voters," Adhav said. He highlighted that candidates receive positive feedback, making the method very cost-effective. He also noted that several operators have deployed more autos this year compared to the civic polls held nearly nine years ago.
Technology Ensures Accountability and Reach
The integration of technology is a game-changer. Routes are pre-defined, with each auto typically covering one ward for about eight hours daily, though some operate across multiple wards. The use of GPS tracking is crucial for accountability. Operators review GPS data before releasing payments, which are usually made daily. This system ensures the vehicles keep moving and do not remain stationary for extended periods, maximizing visibility.
Shafiq Patel, president of the Kondhwa-based Azad Rickshaw Chalak Sanghatna, provided a local perspective. He stated that candidates in his area hired an average of seven to eight autorickshaws each. "The bookings here were impressive. For drivers, too, it's a decent income without being very hectic," Patel remarked. Duty hours generally run from 9 am to 9 pm, with a two-hour afternoon break, and drivers earn between Rs 1,200 and Rs 1,500 per day.
Drivers and Unions Weigh In
Autorickshaw driver Shammu Shaikh, who campaigned in designated areas of ward 19 in Kondhwa for a Congress candidate, shared his experience. "I am getting Rs 1,200 per day. I knew the candidate as he lived near my house and contacted me directly. All permissions from the RTO were taken," Shaikh explained, outlining the informal yet structured nature of these engagements.
Another driver, Shankar Barve from Lohegaon, found the work preferable to his regular routine. "I am being paid Rs 1,400 per day, and the candidate's associates keep checking to ensure I am on the move. They ask for my location frequently and sometimes accompany me. I like the work," Barve said.
While the trend is strong, some union leaders observe variations. Keshav Kshirsagar, president of the Baghtoy Rickshawaala Union, noted that the numbers seemed lower than expected so far. "We are not sure of the reason, but bookings usually spike in the final week," he said. However, he estimated that around 1,500 autorickshaws may currently be engaged in campaigning across Pune, a figure higher than during assembly elections due to the localized nature of the civic polls.
The Regional Transport Office (RTO) and auto unions play a significant role in regulating and managing these mobile campaigns. When contacted for the total number of vehicles deployed, Pune RTO officials had not provided a response at the time of reporting.
This fusion of traditional transport with modern tracking and audio-visual technology marks a new chapter in hyper-local electioneering, offering candidates a flexible, measurable, and impactful way to connect with voters on their own streets.
