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Sat, Apr 26 01:30 AM

Delhi's always been famous for its 'parking' culture - young couples coochie-cooing unhindered in public gardens. But now there's another option for Delhiites - autos.

"In an auto, no one watches you from the bushes or clicks your pictures," says Sarita*, a nurse in a South Delhi hospital. On her off days she and her boyfriend rent an auto for an hour and ask the bhaiyya to go repeatedly around India Gate.

Their joy rides always end with ice creams. "It's great for those who are desperate for space and to offload the heat of the moment," says Neeraj*, a young professional.

"It also suits my girlfriend," he says. Neeraj's friend is off parks ever since they were spotted by an 'uncle' in Nehru Park.

Autos, they soon discovered, keep away the prying eyes. The auto-wallahs have a different take.

"Our attention is diverted and there is a higher risk of accidents," says Ramesh. Sometimes he ends up fighting with couples.

"The moment these couples take their place, they start doing ayyashi. They smoke, drink, kiss and sometimes cross all limits," he says.

"They think we auto-wallahs are blind." Rohit, another auto driver, says, "It starts around 8 pm and are mostly centered in places like India Gate, Connaught Place, and Ring Road.

" But hotelier Vinay's* memorable ride with his boyfriend took place on the stretch between Red Fort and GK-I. "We enjoyed moongphalis. and also kissed frequently," he says.

However, not all couples find autos a good place for coupling. "They're open and there's a driver," says Radhika*.

"I like cars," she says.

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