Gujarat: GSFC to retrofit Vadnagar autorickshaws with heritage-themed designs
Gandhinagar, Aug 11
More than 300 autorickshaws registered in Vadnagar are being brought into the state's tourism development efforts, with Gujarat State Fertilisers & Chemicals Limited using its Corporate Social Responsibility 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
Reader Comments
Good initiative, but why only 21 autos in the first phase? We have 300+ registered, and the tourist season is already picking up. GSFC and the tourism department should move faster to cover all vehicles before the peak winter crowd arrives. Otherwise, the first batch will look like a decoration piece while the rest look mismatched.
This is exactly what responsible tourism looks like—upgrading the local experience rather than building new concrete structures that don’t match the old town’s character. If I’m visiting UNESCO tentative sites, I’d rather ride in a heritage-styled auto than a regular one. Great job, Gujarat!
Not to be negative, but will this just become another "picture-perfect" project where drivers shell out for fancy paint but the government doesn’t do enough for their livelihoods? I hope the tourism department also ensures these drivers get good routes and fares, not just a prettier vehicle to sit in. The design is lovely, but let’s make sure the auto drivers benefit beyond the looks. 😊
As a foreign tourist, I find this fantastic. Even small towns in India are getting smart about showcasing their heritage in everyday things. I’m planning a trip to Vadnagar after seeing the UNESCO listing, and knowing the autos will have a heritage theme makes me want to book a ride right away. It feels authentic and community-driven.
यह बहुत अच्छी पहल है! (It's a great initiative!) Vadnagar is one of the oldest towns in Gujarat, and this will give it the attention it
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