Three decades ago in Chennai, a woman driving an auto-rickshaw raised eyebrows. Today, it’s a symbol of survival, defiance, and transformation. For women like A. Mohanasundari, a 39-year-old former beautician turned auto driver, the road became a battleground—and a path to empowerment. What began as a temporary post-pandemic fix evolved into a movement.

Facing harassment and exclusion from male-dominated auto stands, Mohanasundari fought back by founding the Veera Pengal Munnetra Sangam (Association for the Progress of Heroic Women). From a modest WhatsApp group of six women, it grew into a 45-member collective, winning national recognition and ₹50,000 at IIM Kozhikode’s Women Start-up Programme in 2024—the only team allowed to pitch in Tamil.

Backed by community organiser Vijay Gnanaprasad, the group formalised in April 2024. It now offers legal aid, circulatory loans, and training, and is set to become Tamil Nadu’s first women-led transport cooperative.

But challenges remain: lack of restrooms, societal stigma, unsafe conditions, and shrinking earnings due to ride-hailing apps. “We’re often groped or mocked. But now, we’re not alone,” says veteran driver Leela Rani. Many members are single mothers and caregivers, juggling survival and dignity on the streets.

With a monthly contribution of ₹222 per member, the Sangam funds essential support systems and demands safer infrastructure—women-only auto stands, rest lounges, and visibility.

Over 600 women drive autos in Chennai, with hundreds more trained but hesitant. “We are not a novelty—we are necessary,” asserts Mohanasundari.