- Pakistan is experiencing a surge in initiatives for women empowerment and gender equality, exemplified by the announcement of a training program for female bus drivers by Sindh Information and Transport Minister, Sharjeel Inam Memon.
- The focus on female drivers for women-only pink buses aims to provide a safer and more secure environment for women passengers, addressing concerns of safety in public transportation.
- The Sindh Mass Transit Authority (SMTA) board meeting also discussed subsidies for the People’s Bus Service and the expansion of the Pink Bus Service, along with advancements in the Red Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project, showcasing Pakistan’s commitment to inclusive and progressive transportation initiatives.
In recent years, Pakistan has witnessed a remarkable surge in initiatives aimed at promoting women empowerment and gender equality. The announcement made by Sindh Information and Transport Minister, Sharjeel Inam Memon, to launch a training program for female bus drivers, particularly for the women-only pink buses, is a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of women’s participation in all spheres of life in the country.
Training Program Underway for Female Drivers
During the 10th board meeting of the Sindh Mass Transit Authority (SMTA) in Karachi, Sharjeel Inam Memon, the Information and Transport Minister of Sindh revealed plans to introduce a training program for female bus drivers, with a particular focus on the flagship women-only pink buses. The inclusion of female drivers will establish an increased sense of safety and reassurance for women passengers in the city where women often feel unsafe while using public transport.
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The board also deliberated on providing subsidies for the People’s Bus Service, a decision that had already been endorsed by the cabinet. Additionally, they discussed the upcoming second phase of the Peoples Bus Service, which involves the incorporation of 500 buses and the introduction of an eco-friendly electric taxi service. The Pink Bus Service was initially started off with a fleet of eight pink buses and expansion plans are already underway. The service’s footprint set to expand to other areas in Karachi and also extending the bus service to other cities in Sindh.
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During the SMTA board meeting, the advancement of the Red Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project was thoroughly assessed. The gathering saw the presence of key officials, including Transport Secretary Saleem Rajput, SMTA Managing Director Kamal Dayo, DIG Traffic Ahmed Nawaz Cheema, planning and development department representative Sikandar Shaikh, and Trans Karachi Chief Executive Officer Tufail Palijo.
As Pakistan continues to embrace the principles of women empowerment and gender equality, such progressive measures demonstrate the nation’s commitment to forging a path towards a more just and equitable future for all.
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