The Metro Rail system in Bangladesh stands as a testament to the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and convenience of all citizens, with a specific focus on the well-being of women. Acknowledging the unique challenges women face in public transportation, the Awami League government has taken concrete steps to establish an inclusive and secure transportation network.
In a laudable step towards promoting women’s safety and empowerment, the introduction of dedicated metro rail services featuring a coach exclusively for female passengers is poised to be a transformative move. This visionary initiative addresses critical facets of women’s lives—ensuring safety, enhancing mobility, and making a positive social impact—ushering in a new era of secure and efficient transportation.
Recognizing the diverse patterns of movement that women often navigate, such as attending to their children’s medical emergencies or ensuring their school drop-offs before heading to work, the reliance on public transportation becomes essential. However, the presence of unsafe transport not only compels women to alter their modes of movement but also curtails the number of trips they can make.
This proactive approach by the government not only enhances the safety and mobility of women but also signifies a significant step towards fostering a more inclusive and equitable transportation landscape.
Transformative Initiatives and the Metro Rail
According to a survey conducted by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics in 2015, around 87% of women in Bangladesh have experienced some form of sexual harassment on public transport. Now, after 8 more years, the situation has changed and is changing more as the government is taking initiatives to create an environment where women can travel without fear. Bangladesh is now witnessing a commendable transformation in its transportation sector, particularly focusing on providing safe and efficient mobility for women. The Awami League government, under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has played a pivotal role in realizing this shift, with the implementation of the Metro Rail project emerging as a key milestone.
A study by the BRAC Institute of Governance and Development finds women’s perceptions of safety influence their travel choices. Improving safety measures can encourage greater use of public transportation by women. When they feel secure in public spaces, they are more likely to participate actively in various aspects of society. The paramount concern for women’s safety during commutes has long been a societal issue. The dedicated coach for metro rail services for women not only alleviated these concerns but also set a gold standard for prioritizing the well-being of female commuters. With well-lit stations, security personnel, and emergency assistance readily available, the metro rail system becomes a sanctuary of safety for women navigating the bustling urban landscape. Beyond safety, this initiative significantly enhances mobility for women.
PM Sheikh Hasina’s Vision, Drive for Gender Equality in Bangladesh
The Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman started the process of uplifting the women’s status by establishing equal rights of women with men in all spheres of the state and of public life as a constitutional obligation under Article 28. After assuming power in 2014, Hon’ble Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina attached utmost importance on a priority basis to ensure the rights of people started implementing the development goals, and time and again just updated them. Through her Vision 2021 and 2041, momentum has been created for taking Bangladesh forward to a middle and high-income level, respectively. To implement the visionary approach, the government has undertaken various steps to ensure women’s development in Bangladesh. Ensuring safe transportation for women was one of those initiatives of development programs. The metro rail here is one of the possible solutions to ensure safety. By providing a reliable and punctual mode of transportation, the metro rail system facilitates swift and seamless travel, empowering women to navigate the city with confidence and independence.
The positive flow effect is felt in various spheres of life, from increased work opportunities to improved access to education and healthcare. Moreover, the courageous role of Sheikh Hasina’s government in revolutionizing Bangladesh’s transportation sector, particularly through the Metro Rail project, cannot be exaggerated. By prioritizing the safety and accessibility of women in public transport, the government has not only enhanced the overall quality of life for citizens but has also taken a significant step toward achieving gender equality and socio-economic development.
Conclusion
The metro rail stands as a shining beacon of progress and a testament to a government committed to forging a brighter, more inclusive future for Bangladesh. As cities across the country adopt similarly forward-thinking initiatives, we are laying the groundwork for a future where every woman can navigate her city with confidence, free from safety concerns, and empowered to pursue her aspirations. The metro rail initiative, emphasizing safety, mobility, and community support, not only tackles these challenges but also plays a pivotal role in reshaping societal norms, cultivating a culture of respect, and nurturing a more inclusive and equitable nation.
