National Federation of Postal Employees

Solar-power assisted, pedal-operated cycle rickshaw named Soleckshaw developed by CSIR introduced at Rajasthan Circle

Shri Sachin Pilot, Minister of State for Communications & Information Technology launched an environment-friendly postal delivery vehicle ‘Soleckshaw’ here today. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that it is the endeavour of the Ministry to use green technology for delivering services in efficient and eco-friendly manner. He said that this effort is a step forward towards the Government’s efforts to modernise and digitise the India Post Services under Project Arrow. Availability of this vehicle will add to the efficiency of postal agents and will also give them a sense of pride.

As a Pilot Project, Soleckshaw will be introduced soon in the Project Arrow post offices in a city of Rajasthan. Shri Pilot mentioned that the Ministry would evaluate the performance of the vehicle within few months and will explore the possibility of its expansion on larger scale.

Soleckshaw is a solar-power assisted, pedal-operated cycle rickshaw developed by CSIR. It reduces the rickshaw puller’s effort by providing battery assistance. It is still a zero carbon emission vehicle. The batteries are charged by solar power at charging stations. Technology has been transferred to multiple entrepreneurs and Soleckshaws are currently plying at Delhi (Chandni Chowk), Chandigarh, Jaipur, Durgapur, Ranchi, Kolkata and Ahmadabad.

Recently, M/s Kinetic Motors in association with CMERI (CSIR) has re-designed and developed a modified version of Soleckshaw specifically suitable as a light delivery vehicle, particularly useful for delivery of post, parcels and other postal services both in urban and rural areas.

Some of the features of the vehicle are as follows: Soleckshaw has potential for use as a light delivery vehicle for distribution of dak etc, Emergence of electronic means of communication is changing the profile of post offices and postmen.

A Postman is likely to carry more parcels for delivery than ordinary mails. A survey in Pune found that each postman covers an area of around 40-45 kms and carries an average weight of 10-15 kgs per day. The Soleckshaw is the ideal vehicle to enable transportation of such parcels with a minimum of effort. This is expected to improve speed and efficiency of postal delivery, increase ability to carry more load; distribute other value-added products in rural areas and provide charging facilities for mobile phones in remote areas etc.

- Courtesy: Postal Staff Corner