New Delhi, Aug 10 : Delhi Chief Minister Shiela Dikshit Tuesday launched a battery-operated rickshaw, "E-rick", sponsored by cellular services provider Vodafone Essar, to promote eco-friendly transportation in the city ahead of the Commonwealth Games.

Priced at 1.5 lakh, the company has so far sponsored 25 vehicles which will be plied on five routes-- Greater Kailash-II, Saket-Press club road, IIT-SDA market area, Delhi University-North Campus and Chandni Chowk.

"There is a need for collaborative efforts to make Delhi a pollution-free zone. We have always been conscious about environmental issues and hence are supportive of such initiative which would help ensure a healthier and greener city," said Dikshit.

Sanjay Warke, Vodafone chief executive officer, said the

launch of "E-rick" is a step towards a cleaner and greener environment.

E-rick is powered by batteries and has a capacity of travelling 90 km per charging. The main components of the vehicle are fully recyclable polyethylene cabin, a heavy duty modular steel frame.

Vodafone will also launch a "clean Delhi, clean Yamuna" campaign where the company will be sending messages to its subscribers to create awareness, Warke added. (IANS)