Chennai
Saktivel S, who sells these umbrellas across Tamil Nadu and Chennai, says, “Last year we were receiving orders for 20 to 30 umbrellas a week in the month of May. However, this year we have received over 50 inquiries in March itself.”
S Hamid who is based out of Maharashtra but supplies these umbrellas all over the country says, ‘We have sold upto hundred bike umbrellas since mid-February and we are getting inquiries from Chennai almost every day.”
These special kinds of umbrellas could be bought online too. A quick search shows that sites like Amazon, eBay and Snapdeal also have these covers being sold anywhere between 1000 to 1,800. One of the product description says, “The two-wheeler umbrella brings you an ultimate summer and monsoon shield for you and your bike, protect your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays from sun.” Further specifying the features, it says “Size: 72 inch foldable and wind proof. The colours available are blue and Red.”
They recommend a professional installation. Also, there are a lot of designs that are available in the market. One is for a scooty and the other is for the bike and they need to be carefully installed based on the design. “These umbrellas are made of nylon and can be changed if they are damaged. We come with a warranty,” says Hamid.
Syeed M, a resident of Royapettah purchased one last year and swears to use it this year too.
“I bought one equipment last year after watching a video. Initially, a lot of people turned around and looked at me. But I did not bother as it was the only way I could protect myself from the harsh rays of the Sun. This year, I am definitely going to use it because the green cover has been wiped away to a large extent by Cyclone Vardah,” he said.
“Slowly, people who were making fun of me are now asking me about how to buy one for themselves. Some probe further and want to know about its advantages and disadvantages. I am sure this will catch up this summer and I am expecting to see many more as I drive on the hot dusty roads of Chennai,” added Syeed.
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