Tuk-tuks become common sight in Lebanon's streets amid economic crisis
Amid the devastating economic crisis and the deteriorating living conditions in Lebanon, many have replaced their vehicles with tuk-tuks to run errands, work or deliver goods.
BEIRUT — Tuk-tuks, or three-wheeled rickshaws, have become an increasingly common sight in some of Lebanon's streets, especially in overcrowded neighborhoods, and the countryside as a new means of transportation.
Amid the economic and financial crises that have been gripping the country since the end of 2019, and the collapse of the local currency as well as the explosion of prices, many Lebanese have been seeking a source of income with a little capital.
Many have opted to own a tuk-tuk, which costs between $1,000 and $2,500 for transportation and work purposes.
“I bought a tuk-tuk two years ago for $1,500. I use it to drive in and around the southern suburb of Beirut to collect and buy metal scrap from people and to transport goods. The tuk-tuk has become the only source of income for me and my family. It does not use gas as it has a rechargeable battery. Many people I know own tuk-tuks now,” Nasser al-Ahmad, a young man in his 20s, married with a daughter, told Al-Monitor.
