When the country faces tough times, it’s often the everyday heroes who step up and make a difference. In Uttarakhand, a beautiful example of this spirit is unfolding on the streets. Auto and taxi drivers are coming together to offer free rides to soldiers heading back to duty. Their simple but powerful gesture is touching hearts and showing true gratitude for the brave men and women in uniform.
The idea began in the Chamoli district, but quickly spread to other parts of Uttarakhand, especially Dehradun and Pithoragarh. Local drivers saw soldiers rushing back to their units as tensions rose between India and Pakistan. Many soldiers had their leaves cancelled and needed to return urgently. The drivers decided to help in the best way they could-by giving them free rides.
“It’s a small gesture for those who do so much for us,” said one of the drivers. This feeling was shared by many, and soon, dozens of autos and taxis started offering their services without charging a single rupee.
In Dehradun, nearly 100 auto-rickshaw drivers joined the cause. They began ferrying soldiers and their families for free from important places like the railway station and Rispana bridge. To make things clear, they put special stickers on their vehicles that said the ride was free for soldiers.
The president of the Doon Auto-rickshaw Union, Pankaj Arora, explained that this service started just three days after Operation Sindoor began. Even after a ceasefire was declared, the drivers decided to continue the free rides for at least a week, so every soldier could get back to their post or return home safely.
Schedule for Free Rides
Here is a simple schedule to help soldiers and their families know when and where they can get a free ride:
| Location | Service Timing | Pick-up Points | Contact Method | Duration |
| Dehradun | 6 AM – 10 PM | Railway Station, Rispana Bridge | On-spot or by phone | At least 1 week |
| Pithoragarh | 24 hours | Soldier’s home (on request) | Phone/Social Media | Until tensions end |
| Chamoli | 7 AM – 8 PM | Main bus stands, city centre | On-spot | At least 1 week |
Why It Matters
This simple act of kindness is making a big difference. Soldiers are able to reach their units on time without worrying about transport. Their families feel proud and supported. The drivers, many of whom have relatives in the army, feel happy to give back in their own way.
In Uttarakhand, almost every family has someone in the armed forces. That’s why this movement feels so personal and powerful. It’s a reminder that even in difficult times, small acts of kindness can bring people together and make the nation stronger.
