Dhaka: Road Transport and Bridges Minister Shaikh Rabiul Alam announced today that the women-only bus service will be expanded across the country in phases. ‘The government is committed to ensuring safe, comfortable, and women-friendly public transport,’ he stated while inaugurating a women-only bus service at the Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation (BRTC) headquarters.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the initiative aims to provide a safer travel environment for women, who frequently face discomfort and risks while using public buses. Minister Alam emphasized that the service would enable women to travel comfortably and participate more actively in economic and social activities. Highlighting that women make up nearly half of the population and more than half of the voters, he underscored their crucial role in nation-building and the economy.
State Minister for Road Transport and Highways Division Habibur Rashid, Road Transport Division Secretary Dr. Mohammad Ziaul Haque, and senior officials from various ministries attended the inauguration. Minister Alam affirmed that introducing a dedicated bus service for women was one of the commitments of the current government. He also mentioned that BRTC is currently operating over 1,200 buses and 500 trucks, with plans to modernize and improve the organization.
Addressing issues in Dhaka’s route permit system, Minister Alam pointed out inconsistencies where permits exist for defunct routes, while some buses operate without valid permits. The government plans to reassess routes based on passenger demand, traffic pressure, and current needs to rationalize route permits and transport management.
The minister also shared the government’s initiative to introduce electric buses for an environment-friendly transport system. Already, 200 electric buses have been procured, with plans to allocate 100 of them for women. He explained that direct procurement was chosen to expedite the introduction of environment-friendly transport, avoiding lengthy project formulation and procurement processes.
Minister Alam praised women drivers, asserting their capabilities and calling for greater opportunities for women in the transport sector. He noted that ensuring safe transportation would enhance women’s participation in employment, education, and economic activities.
He urged BRTC officials to improve the service quality within two months, stressing that responsibility does not end with the inauguration. He highlighted the importance of sustaining and expanding the service, ensuring passenger safety, comfort, and punctuality.
The minister called on journalists to report both positive and negative aspects of the initiative, urging that any shortcomings be promptly addressed. He described the launch of the women-friendly bus service as a timely and necessary initiative, with sustaining and improving its quality as the primary challenges.
BRTC Chairman Abdul Latif Molla presided over the program, with participation from Additional Secretary Anisur Rahman, Chief Engineer Md Moniruzzaman, and senior officials. Local representatives and district administration officials from Chattogram and Bogura joined the program online.