By Samina Chaudhary
In an inspiring move towards gender equality and environmental sustainability, the Federal Government has launched the Pink Bus service for the dedicated women of Islamabad and its nearby areas. This initiative, featuring 20 buses, aims to provide a safe, cost-free mode of transportation for female students, teachers, and working professionals.
Designed to ease the daily commute of women who face challenges in reaching their educational institutions and workplaces, the Pink Bus service is a significant step forward. These buses will shuttle passengers from rural to urban areas of Islamabad, promoting accessibility and reducing travel-related barriers.
The Pink Bus Service, was inaugurated by Minister of Education Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui.
“The timing of these buses shall be from 6am to 9am in the morning and from 1:30pm to 4pm in the afternoon,” read a notification issued by the education ministry.
The ministry stated that the aim is to “bridge the gap” between urban and rural areas as an effort to promote education in the latter. This move comes amid the educational institutions facing a shortage of buses to cater to the needs of all students, particularly those travelling from rural areas to get education in urban schools and colleges.
The Ministry of Education has stated that the pink buses will be a welcome addition to Islamabad’s transportation system, providing free and safe transportation to female students and teachers.
PM Shehbaz Sharif has announced that the federal government and the Ministry of Education will cover all expenses for the project.
Adorned with the empowering slogan “No Fear No Barrier,” these buses symbolize a safe space for women, encouraging their participation in education and the workforce without the fear of harassment or high transportation costs. Moreover, this service is a positive stride towards reducing the city’s carbon footprint.
The Ministry said that this project would ensure free, safe, and convenient transportation for female students and teachers.
“This project will reduce travel time and increase accessibility. It will also encourage girls’ education and women’s empowerment,” the statement read.
By providing a shared, efficient mode of transport, the Pink Bus service helps in decreasing the number of private vehicles on the road, thereby contributing to the mitigation of climate change. This initiative not only empowers women but also supports Islamabad’s efforts to combat environmental challenges.