Auto-Rickshaw Business Proves Lucrative Income Source for Youths in Myagdi

Myagdi. The auto-rickshaw driving business has become a strong source of income in Myagdi. Around 30 youths operating auto-rickshaws within Beni Municipality are earning more than NPR 40,000 monthly.

Local businessman Shiva Regmi stated that the auto-rickshaw business has recently attracted unemployed youths as a source of income due to the good earnings it provides.

Auto driver Suman Rijal says that driving an auto-rickshaw yields a good income. Rijal, from Bagarphanta, Beni Municipality-2, mentioned that he earns between NPR 40,000 to 45,000 monthly driving an auto-rickshaw.

He stated that he entered the auto business with the intention of doing something in his own country rather than working as a laborer in a foreign country. He is satisfied with the income generated from driving the auto.

"I drive an auto-rickshaw in the Beni market and municipal area, earning between NPR 2,500 to 3,000 daily," he said. "After deducting all expenses, I save NPR 1,500 daily. It doesn't involve many expenses, and I am very satisfied with this."

Kalu Sapkota from Faparkhet, Beni Municipality-2, who bought an auto-rickshaw three years ago for NPR 380,000, is also satisfied with the earnings. He noted that although earnings have decreased compared to the beginning due to the increased number of auto-rickshaws now, the business is still better than others, as it provides service and profit, attracting more youth lately.

"In the beginning, there were few auto-rickshaws, and the daily earning was between NPR 3,500 to 5,000," he said. "The earnings are still good now. I have no other source of income; household expenses and other unforeseen costs are managed through this. Some savings are also being made; I have become self-employed by driving an auto-rickshaw."

Another auto driver, Basanta Regmi, has also earned a good income driving an auto. Regmi, who managed to save over NPR 30,000 monthly, started driving an auto-rickshaw after returning from foreign employment. He said, "I get to work while staying at home, and I don't have to struggle much; I am satisfied with this." He believes the auto-rickshaw business is excellent for those who are past the age of seeking traditional jobs, cannot go abroad, or have no employment prospects.

The operation of autos began here after the Beni Municipality distributed auto-rickshaws on subsidy for operation within the 10 wards of the municipality. Although the geography is hilly, auto-rickshaws are operating on paved roads within the municipal area. Beni Municipality stated that 30 autos are currently operating within the municipal area.