'Pink Van' initiative empowers women

The provincial government has launched a Mobile Police Station and Licensing Unit (Pink Van) for women in Rawalpindi.

City Police Officer (CPO) Syed Khalid Hamdani inaugurated the service at Rawalpindi Medical University, where female students and staff availed doorstep licensing and registration facilities.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Farhan Aslam, Vice Chancellor Dr Umar, STO Munir Hashmi, and other senior officials.

CTO Farhan Aslam briefed the participants, stating that while two mobile units were previously designated for general public services, a new Panic Mobile Unit has now been added exclusively for women under the CM's empowerment initiative.

The mobile unit will visit educational institutions, workplaces, and field areas to provide on-site services, including driver's licences, learner permits, crime reporting, and certificate issuance.

Each van includes four counters equipped for biometric verification, fingerprinting, and instant license printing. Four trained female officers have been assigned to these counters. The unit will also conduct driving skills lectures and training sessions wherever it operates.

Addressing the ceremony, CPO Khalid Hamdani said that 33 such mobile units have been introduced across Punjab. "Women will now be able to file FIRs, obtain learner and permanent licenses for motorcycles and cars, renew existing licenses, and even apply for international permits - all at their doorstep," he said.

He added that the initiative aims to ensure women's mobility and independence. "Driving freedom is key to women's empowerment.

Many hesitate to visit police offices, so this mobile service will bridge that gap," he noted. The department also plans to evolve the system into a virtual mini police station in the near future.

Vice Chancellor Dr Umar praised the Punjab government and the police departments for bringing services directly to female students. Students at the university also welcomed the initiative, calling it a "game changer."

Zainab Naseer, a second-year student, said, "This is a great step. Earlier, it was very difficult for women to visit offices. Now, we can do everything ourselves."

Another student, Zuneira Asghar, said, "The government's steps, like the laptop scheme and this mobile licensing unit, show true commitment to women's empowerment. We no longer have to depend on anyone."