Empowering Women, One Ride At A Time: The Unsung Heroes Of BRT Peshawar

(MENAFN- Tribal News Network) A few days ago, I was traveling on the BRT in Peshawar, and seated next to me was a female security guard. Our casual conversation soon turned into an eye-opening exchange about her job.

As she spoke about her duties, her gaze shifted to the women's entrance, and she sighed, saying, "Look at this! Men are crowding the women's door again. I'm tired of asking them to move. One even misbehaved with me once and said, 'Mind your own business! You can't tell me where to stand.'"

She continued, sharing that such incidents aren't rare. "It happens almost daily," she said. "Don't they realize I'm here late at night to ensure women's safety? Children and adults litter the bus, and if I ask them to stop, they become rude. And don't get me started on the heavy luggage some women bring along, which is prohibited in the BRT. When I remind them, their reaction is often disrespectful."

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Her words left me feeling disheartened, especially because they mirrored my own observations. In a city like Peshawar, where conservative traditions dominate, women taking on such roles is no small feat.

The BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) system in Peshawar has been a game-changer for women in the city. A 2016 study revealed that women accounted for just 15% of public transport passengers in Peshawar, and 90% of them reported feeling unsafe during their commutes. To address this, the BRT introduced dedicated women's sections, female staff accounting for 15% of the workforce, complaint management via mobile apps, and awareness campaigns to ensure safety and inclusivity.

Today, the BRT employs around 3,000 to 3,500 staff members, of whom nearly 10% are women. Most of these women come from financially disadvantaged families in areas like Chitral, Charsadda, and Peshawar's outskirts. For many, their job is not just a source of income but a testament to their courage in navigating a male-dominated society.

Yet, their challenges are manifold. Many passengers fail to recognize their efforts, often subjecting them to poor behavior. Ironically, these women guards are the reason some families now allow their daughters and wives to use the BRT, offering a sense of security that was previously missing.

Female staff play vital roles in making the BRT a safe and efficient service for women. From handling card top-ups and ticket checks to security pat-downs, they ensure women commuters have a hassle-free experience. Such efforts deserve not only recognition but also our collective respect and support.

In 2022, the United Nations and BRT celebrated International Women's Day, highlighting the invaluable contributions of women workers in the transport sector. It's high time we follow suit and appreciate their work. These women are more than just employees; they are pioneers breaking barriers in a city where their presence on public transport once seemed unimaginable.

Note: Let's extend our cooperation and kindness to these hardworking women who are not only providing us with better transport services but also paving the way for more women to step into public spaces with confidence.

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