Chandigarh, Nov 14 : It was a different kind of motor race. No vrrooming cars or mobikes, but three-wheeled autorickshaws chugging away at a sedate speed.

This union territory Saturday saw a unique race on three wheels, with the participation of over 100 LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas)-run auto rickshaws.

And the winners were not judged on speed but their driving acumen.

In a bid to spread environmental awareness among the masses, a city-based event management company organised the race christened 'Jalwa Autowale Ka'.

"Over 100 auto rickshaws participated in 10 different rounds of this obstacle race. We tested the drivers on their safe driving skills and on how quickly they react to an emergency situation," Manav Meet, organizer of the race, told IANS.

The winner got Rs. 10,000 cash reward and the first and second runner up bagged Rs. 5,000 and Rs. 2,500 respectively.

"We will also convert the auto rickshaws of the winners into hi-tech vehicles by installing GPS (global positioning system) and other latest gadgets. Our motto is to educate people about degrading of the environment and to promote LPG-run vehicles," stated Meet.

Auto-rickshaw drivers and spectators here were very enthusiastic about the competition.

"This is just the beginning and we have decided to associate ourselves in more such activities in the coming days. We will motivate residents of Chandigarh to use public transport and to switch to more eco-friendly means," Malkit Singh, secretary of LPG auto drivers union Chandigarh, said.

He added: "Presently there are 2,500 registered LPG autos in Chandigarh and many drivers are waiting for their registration."(IANS)