JOIN USNow, women auto drivers to secure safe commute?
Delhiites will soon find women auto drivers on City roads. The Delhi gang rape victim is no more but what she has left behind is the hope that the society will change, the mind set will change and the government will become more proactive and take charge and some responsibility for womens’ safety.
The case which gave sleepless nights to government officials, also compelled them to take some actions like introduction of a women’s distress helpline number 181 and making the patrolling more stringent. The latest ‘action’ is the proposal to introduce more women auto drivers. According to it, the Government of Delhi has decided to impart free auto-rickshaw driving training and issue free driving licences to women auto drivers. These trained women drivers will be issued permits for auto-rickshaws on priority.
Metrolife spoke to Delhi Transport Minister Ramakant Goswami to find out if the proposal will translate into help on ground. “This step will definitely help fight crimes against women in the City. It will bring confidence and a sense of security in women and encourage them to opt for public transportation. I would also go so far as to say, that it would help bring equality in certain measure between women and men in society. We had to start from somewhere and after seeing the scenario in the City, we are taking gradual steps for womens’ safety. This is one of them.”
According to the proposal, women who already own a public service vehicle (PSV) certificate, a valid driving licence and are citizens of Delhi will be given priority and can apply for the posts. Maruti has begun two training schools, one in Sarai Kale Khan and one in Wazirabad for training purposes. It will also have quotas for ST and SC. The total expenditure for the training will be borne by the Delhi Transport Department, while the women would be expected to shell out only Rs 500 as security which would be refunded after the course is over.
Surabhi Gupta, a designer who takes an auto to her office in Hauz Khas, says, “I think it will help women travellers. It will also help those who want to travel at night.”
Another commoner, Pallavi Sood, too seconds Surabhi. “I would prefer these autos definitely, as it will boost my confidence and give me a sense of security while using public transport. After going through so much, we as women need some safety assurance by the government. It is high time things fell into place and we can move about freely.”
Amen to that.