Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation (BRTC) today launched special women-only bus services in Dhaka, Chattogram and Bogura to ensure safe, comfortable and passenger-friendly public transport for women.
A total of 14 buses will initially operate on 13 routes in the three cities. The buses will be operated by female drivers and attendants. The service will be gradually expanded across the country, with plans to add higher-quality buses for women.
The inauguration of the women-only bus service was held today at the BRTC office in Tejgaon in the capital.
The service was inaugurated simultaneously in Chattogram and Bogura through an online connection.
The Road Transport Minister, State Minister, Secretary, Additional Secretary and senior officials from various ministries and agencies attended the ceremony.
Local public representatives and officials from the divisional and district administrations of Chattogram and Bogura joined the ceremony online.
At the inauguration ceremony, the Road Transport Minister said ensuring a safe and women-friendly transport system is part of the government’s election pledge.
He said women face various uncomfortable and risky situations while travelling on public transport.
Considering these issues, he said, the special bus service has been introduced to create a safe and comfortable environment for female passengers. Women are playing an important role in the economy, from household finances to the national economy.
“Ensuring safe travel facilities is essential to utilise their capabilities for the needs of the state,” he said.
The minister said 14 buses would initially operate on 13 routes. In Dhaka, 10 buses would operate on 10 routes.
Of these, one is a single-decker bus and nine are double-decker buses. In Chattogram, two double-decker buses will operate on one route, while two double-decker buses will operate on two routes in Bogura. Both the number of buses and routes will be increased in the future, he said.
