Gujarat: GSFC to retrofit Vadnagar autorickshaws with heritage-themed designs

Gandhinagar, Aug 11 (IANS) More than 300 autorickshaws registered in Vadnagar are being brought into the state’s tourism development efforts, with Gujarat State Fertilisers & Chemicals Limited (GSFC) using its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds to give the vehicles a look reflecting the historic city’s heritage.

The initiative, called the Vadnagar Heritage Auto Project, is being implemented with logistical support from the state Tourism and Transport departments as part of efforts to develop the historic and culturally significant city as a tourist destination.

Under the project, more than Rs 50,000 is being spent on retrofitting each autorickshaw.

As many as 21 autorickshaw have been selected and renovated in the first phase, with their new designs intended to showcase Vadnagar’s historical heritage and give the vehicles a distinct identity linked to the city.

The initiative is also aimed at making it easier for tourists visiting Vadnagar to explore its historical sites while providing local autorickshaw drivers with an opportunity to participate in the city’s tourism economy.

Vadnagar attracts tourists from across India and abroad, and the project seeks to integrate local transport more closely with the city’s growing tourism activities.

The state government is undertaking various schemes for the development of Vadnagar, while state public sector undertakings are also being encouraged to contribute to these efforts.

Registration for the project is continuing so that more autorickshaw drivers can benefit from the initiative.

Drivers who want to give their vehicles a heritage-themed appearance can contact the GSFC representative at Vadnagar ST Depot to register and avail themselves of the scheme.

The project is expected to provide visitors with a distinctive way of experiencing Vadnagar while supporting local autorickshaw operators through their involvement in tourism-related transport services.

Vadnagar’s significance as a heritage destination stems from its long and layered history, with archaeological remains and architectural structures spanning several centuries, including Buddhist monasteries, stupas, temples, fortifications, gates, toranas, lakes, wells and traditional houses.

The town also played an important role as a hinterland trade centre in western India. Vadnagar was added to UNESCO’s Tentative List of World Heritage Sites in 2022 under the title ‘Vadnagar – A multi-layered Historic town, Gujarat’.

–IANS

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