**Executive Summary**
This report is an extract from the Tamil Nadu Government Gazette, dated March 6, 2025, outlining amendments to the Tamil Nadu Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. These amendments pertain to the regulation and operation of "Pink Autos" under the Pink Auto Scheme, which are auto rickshaws owned and driven by women.
**Key Points / Main Content**
* **Definition of "Pink Auto":**
* "Pink auto" is defined as an auto rickshaw owned and driven by women drivers under the Pink Auto Scheme of the Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department.
* **Driver Uniform:**
* Women driving pink autos must wear uniforms of pink color.
* **Permit Restrictions:**
* Permits for pink autos are non-transferable for a minimum of five years from the date of issue.
* **Vehicle Technology:**
* Pink autos must be equipped with a Global Positioning System (GPS) or Vehicle Location Tracking Device and connected to the police helpline to ensure a swift response during emergencies.
* **Vehicle Color:**
* Every pink auto covered by a contract carriage permit must be painted entirely in "Pink Colour."
**Impact Analysis**
**Stakeholder: Women Drivers under Pink Auto Scheme**
* **Impact:** Stricter regulation on the appearance of the driver and vehicle. New technology requirements increase operational costs. Restriction on permit transfer limits autonomy.
* **Action Required:** Ensure they adhere to the color of the uniform, install GPS tracking devices and ensure the vehicle meets the required pink color standard.
**Stakeholder: Tamil Nadu Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department**
* **Impact:** Responsible for ensuring the scheme's autos comply with new regulations.
* **Action Required:** Update records and compliance checks to reflect the new regulations.
**Stakeholder: Government of Tamil Nadu (Law Enforcement)**
* **Impact:** To ensure compliance of the Autos with the rules, and integrate GPS tracking data to ensure a quick response during emergencies.
* **Action Required:** Set up required infrastructure to ensure adherence to GPS tracking and other safety regulations.
Key Entities Referenced
Tamil Nadu Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989: The primary set of rules being amended by this notification.
Motor Vehicles Act, 1988: The central act that provides the legal basis for the Tamil Nadu Motor Vehicles Rules.
Pink Auto Scheme of Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department: A scheme to promote women drivers by providing them with auto rickshaws.
Chennai: The location of publication and enforcement of the regulations.
Home Department (Transport-I): The department responsible for issuing the notification and implementing the amendments.