Two-wheeler training centre languishes, voices for revamp echo in Sirsa

In February 2018, Hero MotoCorp, with the support of the Haryana Government, launched the 'Ek Pehal' initiative, which was aimed at empowering women by providing two-wheeler training across various districts. Special centres were set up at ITI colleges, focusing on enhancing driving skills, road safety and traffic rules, particularly for women. One such centre was established at the local ITI Girls Institute in Sirsa, with a significant investment, including several new two-wheelers.

Initially, the centre witnessed activity with several women and girls receiving training. However, after the Covid pandemic struck in 2020, the centre was shut down, leaving the new vehicles unused. Now, the site sits abandoned, with the once functional scooters and bikes gathering dust and falling into disrepair.

Locals, including resident Ashok Kumar, have raised concerns about the waste of resources. Kumar suggests that these vehicles be repurposed for training in government schools, especially for rural girls, or the centre should be revived with a more structured programme. He believes that with proper utilisation, both the government’s investment and the needs of young learners can be met.

The Principal of ITI Women's Institute, Ugrasain, echoed these sentiments. He explained that despite the centre’s early success, the pandemic halted all activities. Efforts have been made to restart the programme, with several letters sent to the higher authorities, including a recent one in January 2024. The request seeks to either restart the training or remove the unused vehicles from the deteriorating old building, which has been declared unsafe. So far, no response has been received. Ugrasain mentioned that at present, 10 scooters, two bikes and four bicycles are lying unused.

Deputy Commissioner Shantanu Sharma confirmed that they were aware of the situation and were reviewing steps to ensure the vehicles were put to good use. He mentioned plans to resume training, ensuring the resources benefit local students.

The centre, once a symbol of women's empowerment, now awaits a fresh start, with the hopes of local residents and officials to turn it back into a place of learning and skill development.