DAREDEVIL: Mohammed Ehshan on his autorickshaw. Picture by Manik Bose

Ranchi, March 10: To solve unemployment issues physically fit youths often opt for the path of extremism, but here’s a person who believes that getting a job is not an issue for those who believe in struggle.

Mohammed Ehshan (36) is physically challenged but that has not proved to be a hindrance for him. A resident of Paras Toli under the Doranda police station area, Ehshan has been driving an autorickshaw for the past 10 years.

He runs his family of five, comprising three school-going children his mother and wife, all by himself. Ehshan lost his limbs in a bomb explosion near the Kadru More around 18 years ago but never lost hope.

Earlier, he depended on part-time jobs in garages to meet his expense and gradually learnt driving. “I started earning three years before my marriage. It was the need of hour as it was not possible for me to survive without a proper source of income,” he said.

He gets up early in the morning and parks his vehicle near St Xavier’s School gate in South Office area. He keeps his hands covered with a shawl so that commuters are not unsure of sitting in his autorickshaw.

Those travelling in his auto rickshaw have never complained of the his driving skills. “Ehshan drives well. I have been on his autorickshaw twice before. He applies the brakes on time. He is able to start the vehicle properly and has no problem in changing the gear or using the accelerator,” said Mohammed Shaquil, who runs a tailoring shop near St Xavier’s School.

Ehshan’s friendship with several autorickshaw drivers has helped him get into this profession. “A majority of my friends are drivers. They helped me learn driving. It is through their co-operation that I am being able to save Rs 100 every day after paying a hiring charge of Rs 60,” Ehshan said.

When asked about his future plans, Ehshan said, he wanted to do some job other for extra income. “ Now I want to do some business for extra income,” he said.

Ehshan has attended school up to Class IX and his will power is stronger than a high degree-holder. His struggle is an eye-opener for those who find themselves helpless despite being physically fit.

The state government is providing him Rs 200 every month from the youth welfare fund.