Dhaka:The Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation (BRTC) is set to introduce electric vehicle (EV) Pink buses exclusively for women passengers on various routes. This initiative aims to ensure safe transportation for women at all times and is part of the current government's election manifesto.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, BRTC will offer completely free driving training to develop skilled female drivers capable of operating heavy motor vehicles. This training is intended for initially selected female drivers and will last between 1 to 4 months.
The new EV Pink Bus service is a further expansion of the existing Pink bus service, which is already operated by female drivers for women passengers. The initiative is not profit-oriented but focuses on providing a safe environment for women across metropolitan cities and the entire country. The government also aims to reduce road crash casualties by 2030, with support from the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank for driver training programs.
BRTC's Gazipur Training Institute Manager, Muhammad Mashiuzzaman, disclosed that applications are being sought from female drivers with a light vehicle license to undergo heavy vehicle training. Successful candidates may be appointed as drivers on a daily-wage basis and will have priority for permanent positions later. The selection process includes a preliminary driving test scheduled between November 1-15, 2026, with training starting on November 17.