Prolonged isolation from families leads to loneliness, and many turn to sex workers, increasing the risk of sexually transmitted diseases. The report further revealed that 27 percent of them suffer from stomach upset, 26 percent from malaria, 14 percent from tuberculosis, 13.2 percent from spine-related issues, 4.4 percent from cough and cold, and 30 percent from joint pain.

Despite the grim conditions, these rickshaws have one redeeming feature — they are eco-friendly. Unlike motorized vehicles, they do not rely on fuel, making them a green mode of transport. Their small size allows them to navigate the narrow lanes of Kolkata, which can be especially useful during the monsoon season when many streets are flooded.

The hand-pulled rickshaws of Kolkata embody a complex blend of history, struggle and pliability. These vehicles, once symbols of colonial power dynamics, have become an integral part of the city's fabric, providing essential services where modern transportation falls short.

As the city strides toward modernization, the need for a compassionate and sustainable transition becomes imperative. Ensuring the dignity and livelihood of these workers through thoughtful rehabilitation packages and alternative employment opportunities is not just a moral obligation but a necessary step toward an inclusive future.

In a city that prides itself on its rich heritage and progressive strides, the plight of the rickshaw pullers is a call to bridge the gap between the past and the future, ensuring that no one is left behind in the march of progress.

THE STATESMAN