Sir this is a serious problem. In long routes, where even a manual feels boring and sleepy, an auto is not preferable at all. Not only because of the sleepy problem but also because it can get quite allot boring. I travel frequently from upper Punjab to lower and a manual helps allot in keeping the driver awake and alert. Atleast more than an auto. Also, at night travelling on long routes, a manual is better. But for City travel, yes, an auto isn't boring or doesn't make the driver fall asleep. This is because of the lessening of the gaps between braking and accelerating. On highways the foot movement is decreased considerably and since there is no changing of gears to between 4 and 5, a driver gets sleepy allot.
Do keep in mind that I said that a family member has problem of falling asleep behind the wheel. So we kept the manual.