Rome:
Former prisoners took to the streets of Rome on rickshaws on Wednesday to help ferry tourists around the city in a bid to repay their debt to society.
Following the popularity of rickshaws in other European cities including Paris, London and Berlin - Rome increased its rickshaw service by adding three new ones to its already five strong fleet.
However the difference with these is they are being driven by former inmates.
The rickshaws are to operate around the tree-lined avenues of Villa Borghese, where tourists get stunning views of the Eternal City.
One Australian tourist who took up the service on Wednesday thought the ride was "excellent".
The programme was set up following a deal between the municipality of Rome and the Ministry of Justice.
Rickshaw driver and reformed prisoner, Francesco, is enjoying his new vocation.
"It's a beautiful thing, staying on a bike you work in the open air, you live your life and it helps also to pass over certain problems you have," he said sitting on his rickshaw.
The vehicles are also equipped with a rechargeable electric motor to assist the drivers on the many hill climbs.
The scheme is being trialled so the rides are free during the day.
But once the trial period is over, the planned charge will be 30 to 40 euros (40 to 50 US dollars) per trip.
Following the popularity of rickshaws in other European cities including Paris, London and Berlin - Rome increased its rickshaw service by adding three new ones to its already five strong fleet.
However the difference with these is they are being driven by former inmates.
The rickshaws are to operate around the tree-lined avenues of Villa Borghese, where tourists get stunning views of the Eternal City.
One Australian tourist who took up the service on Wednesday thought the ride was "excellent".
The programme was set up following a deal between the municipality of Rome and the Ministry of Justice.
Rickshaw driver and reformed prisoner, Francesco, is enjoying his new vocation.
"It's a beautiful thing, staying on a bike you work in the open air, you live your life and it helps also to pass over certain problems you have," he said sitting on his rickshaw.
The vehicles are also equipped with a rechargeable electric motor to assist the drivers on the many hill climbs.
The scheme is being trialled so the rides are free during the day.
But once the trial period is over, the planned charge will be 30 to 40 euros (40 to 50 US dollars) per trip.
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