Public transport is meant for the convenience of the masses, but this is not the case in Karachi. The system is at its worst, with no law and order at all.The ladies’ compartment is smaller as compared to gents’ compartment.
Women are 52 present of Pakistan’s population but less than dozen seats are allocated for them in the public buses including one over the engine. In spite of the less number of seats and space available for females,the bus conductor and drivers are skilful enough to squeeze up to two dozen female commuters in this compartment and male passengers sometimes occupy this compartment as well. The most uncomfortable seats for women are those whose backs are attached to the men’s compartment because women on these seats are usually molested by poking fingers and groping hands. To avoid these harassments the women have to keep their back straight and sit on the foremost part of the seat, no matter how uneasy this ride may be. Almost all the women keep their faces towards the windscreen in order to avoid eye contact with the men at the back because most of them stare the ladies continuously throughout the ride.
As we all know that nowadays every woman in Karachi is either working or studying so they have to travel by public buses even more than the men. Because the men can use motor bikes, there is not an alternative for women due to which a large number of women travel by public buses.
The management of the transportation system in Karachi needs to look into these problems, especially by increasing the number of seats in the ladies’ compartment.Compartments should be properly separated and the entrance of men should be strictly restricted.An effective solution is required so that women can travel conveniently.
SHEHREYAR QURESHI
Karachi