In India it is called a rickshaw, in Thailand a tuk-tuk and in Malta it will be the dudu, a little bug, which will offer commuters the chance to go green.
It is essentially a bicycle with a tiny carriage at the back that can take two people – three, if you are super slim – and you can sit back and let the rider take you to your destination. A fleet of these fuel-free taxis will be operating in Sliema, St Julian’s, Valletta and Paceville by the end of June.
Chris Ellul Vincenti, who set up dudu.com.mt, said he got his inspiration from the time he lived abroad.
“I grew up in London where they’re basically all over the place. I loved using them because you zip through traffic and you get to see more of the place while you’re being cycled to your destination,” he said.
These days, he pointed out, many were exasperated by public transport but, at the same time, they wanted to make less use of their car.
“Somehow, we all feel we ought to be living a greener life,” he said.
This spurred him to bring the rickshaws to Malta and kick off a year-long process that included obtaining a licence from Transport Malta for the rickshaws to be able to grace the roads.
“So, come June, if you’re...
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