Autorickshaws taking British cities by storm
LONDON:The latest Indian element to make its presence felt in the UK is the humble autorickshaw, with several British cities increasingly using this mode of transportation.
Cardiff is the latest city to succumb to the charms of the auto-rickshaw, also known as “tuk-tuk”, following Southampton, Brighton and Hove, Worcestershire, parts of London, Liverpool and Hampshire.
Reports from Cardiff said local company Cardiff Tuk Tuk Tours has applied to the council for permission to offer tours around city.
In its application, expected to be decided by the Welsh capital’s council on July 3, the company has reportedly said it would be unable to offer a taxi service and would only apply for a private hire licence.
“After touring many European cities and travelling extensively by tuktuk, it has become apparent that Cardiff is one of Europe’s only capital cities not operating guided tuk-tuk tours. Cardiff has many interesting and historical attractions which are difficult to visit even by public transport,” the company said in its application. Several companies import auto-rickshaws, mostly from India, and adapt them to meet strict British safety and other regulations.
Their growing use is often seen as a challenge by taxi operators, who cite safety concerns to oppose granting them permission to ply.
Its unique form and resonance with India and the East encourage organisers to use it in charity events, promotional tours and short journeys to ferry tourists.