KARACHI: The Sindh government has taken a groundbreaking step towards empowering women and ensuring their safety during commutes by launching a women-only pink buses project.
In a recent meeting of the Sindh Mass Transit Authority (SMTA), chaired by Provincial Minister for Information and Transport, Sharjeel Inam Memon, the decision to initiate special training programs for women bus drivers was approved.
During the 10th board meeting, Minister Memon highlighted the importance of gender equality and safety for women passengers. The inclusion of female bus drivers is expected to not only promote gender equality but also enhance the sense of security for women during their travels.
The initiative aligns with the vision of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, who has been advocating for the empowerment of women in all fields.
The SMTA board also discussed providing subsidies for the People’s Bus Service, following the recent approval by the cabinet. The feasibility studies for the second phase of the People’s Bus Service were examined during the meeting, which entails the addition of 500 buses. Additionally, an environment-friendly electric taxi service is set to be introduced.
Transport Minister Memon emphasized that the implementation of the second phase of the People’s Bus Service is expected to significantly alleviate travel problems for the public, providing much-needed relief.
Furthermore, the introduction of an environment-friendly electric taxi service is anticipated to not only have a positive environmental impact but also create new employment opportunities.
The SMTA board meeting also addressed the progress of the Red Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project. Key officials, including Transport Secretary Saleem Rajput, SMTA Managing Director Kamal Dayo, Traffic Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Traffic Ahmed Nawaz Cheema, planning and development department representative Sikandar Shaikh, and Karachi Transport Chief Executive Officer Tufail Paliju attended the meeting.
With these developments, the Sindh government is taking significant strides towards modernizing and improving public transportation, with a focus on women’s empowerment and environmental sustainability.
(Islamabad51-Newsdesk)
