There are three types of rickshaws in India: Auto-Rickshaw (Tuk Tuk), Cycle-Rickshaw and Hand-Pulled rickshaw.
Auto rickshaw is the most common means of hired transportation in India. It is a small three-wheeler vehicle with one wheel in the front and two in the back. Auto rickshaws, also commonly called autos, are covered with a leather or soft plastic top usually in combination of green and yellow or black and yellow colors. There are no doors or seatbelts. The right side of the auto is usually bound by iron rods to prevent anyone from falling. There is a single seat in the front for the driver and a wider space at the back for seating minimum 2 people. Auto rickshaw generally runs on a meter system though is some cities like Delhi and Chennai, the fare must be negotiated.
Auto rickshaws are very handy for short-distance travel in cities. The small vehicle can weave their way through small alleys to bypass larger cars stuck in travel jams. Auto rickshaws are mostly cheaper than taxis and can be hailed in the street. However this mode of transport is not very suitable for long distances.
A cycle-rickshaw is a pedal cycle with two rear wheels, supporting a bench seat for passengers. Most have a canopy that can be raised in wet weather, or lowered to provide extra space for luggage. Cycle-rickshaw is a major mean of local transport in many smaller towns.
Hand-pulled rickshaws also known as tana rickshaw are a popular transport mode in Kolkata, which is the last town in India operating this type of rickshaws. This is a hand-cart on two wheels pulled by a person on foot called rickshaw-wallah.
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