Telangana | Students propose better-lit bus facilities and other solutions after studying commuting experiences of 480 women

A group of students embarked on a study of commuting experiences of women aboard buses of the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation, and suggested measures such as gender sensitivity training, better illumination in buses and bus stops, access to robust, digital complaint systems.

Students of the EThames Business School, over a period of 43 day, surveyed 480 women that included over 20 interviews across several city bus routes. They found that that 52% of the respondents faced discomfort during their commute. However, only 23% stated they were aware of or had used safety mechanisms such as helplines or mobile apps.

Students approached the issue in a different manner. Instead of blaming any party, they proposed collaborative solutions. Apart from gender-sensitivity training for TGSRTC staff, and better-lit bus facilities, they suggested cleaner toilet facilities, and designated women-only buses during peak hours.

Also on the list of recommendations was a QR-code enabled complaint registering system in buses. They also sought collaborative policing, involving both uniformed and plainclothes personnel, and training bystanders to support fellow commuters.

The study suggested public-facing campaigns which would facilitate an approach of respect in public transport. These included sharing real stories of women passengers, and underscoring positive impact stories.

TGSRTC Vice Chairman and Managing Director V C Sajjanar appreciated the efforts of students, and stated that training workers, bus tracking apps in the form of Gamyam, and collaboration with SHE Teams, apart from several similar passenger-friendly initiatives were already being implemented.