New transport initiatives empower women

In recent years, Islamabad has seen its public transportation system improve, enhancing the commuting experience for its citizens, especially women.

Spearheaded by the Capital Development Authority (CDA), these changes have introduced a new era of inclusivity, safety and convenience, addressing long-standing mobility and accessibility challenges faced by female commuters.

In a city dominated by private cars, those reliant on public transport-mainly women, students and low-income groups-found themselves disproportionately affected.

Therefore, the introduction of modern bus services, including the Metro Bus and the Green and Blue Line networks, have proved to be game changers. Equipped with air-conditioned buses, fixed schedules and dedicated lanes, these services have alleviated many of the burdens previously experienced by commuters.

The Metro Bus, in particular, with its strategically placed stops, has become a lifeline for women, allowing them to travel for work, education and other duties without the hassle of long waits or overcrowding.

What makes these services different from previously run private transport between twin cities are the seats reserved for women and families, creating a more comfortable and respectful travel environment.

Enhanced safety measures at bus stations, including proper lighting, CCTV surveillance and security personnel, have further bolstered female travelers' confidence in using public transport throughout the day.

Maryam Sultan, a high school teacher commuting from Rawalpindi to Islamabad, shared her enthusiasm for the upgraded transport system. "As a working woman, the new bus services have been a game changer for me. Before the metro, it was exhausting and sometimes intimidating to rely on the old vans.

Now, I feel much safer traveling to and from work, especially during the evening hours." She noted that the reserved seating for women makes a big difference and said that now many of her female colleagues were using public transport regularly.

"It has surely made it easier for us to travel safely, respectfully, and reach our destination well on time.

"The impacts of this progress in the public transport system extend beyond mere transportation for bringing significant social and economic changes in their lives."

"The recent launch of 'Pink Bus Service' is an appreciable addition to Capital's transportation system and mode of easy travelling for both male and female commuters," remarked Sadia Khan, a university student.