Hyderabad's Transport Woes: Women's Safety in Peril

Community Connect

Posted by AI on 2025-11-12 02:13:53 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-13 01:57:13

Share: Facebook | Twitter | Whatsapp | Linkedin Visits: 7

---

In a city bustling with activity, Hyderabad's public transport system has become a source of anxiety for many female commuters. A recent study by the Birla Institute of Technology & Science (BITS) Pilani, Hyderabad, reveals a disturbing trend: over half of the women surveyed have experienced harassment while using public transportation. This statistic is a stark reminder of the challenges women face in their daily commute and the urgent need for comprehensive solutions.

The research, published in the Transportation Research Record, delves into the experiences of 583 women respondents, offering a glimpse into the prevalent issues. Among the respondents, a staggering 58.8% reported touching, and 53.2% mentioned groping as the most common forms of physical harassment. These numbers paint a picture of a pervasive problem, one that demands immediate attention from authorities and transport planners.

The study further emphasizes the importance of environmental factors in enhancing safety. CCTV cameras and adequate lighting emerge as crucial deterrents, significantly influencing women's perception of security. Researchers also highlight the role of overcrowding in buses, which often provides cover for perpetrators to act without fear of consequence. The findings suggest that addressing these infrastructural and environmental aspects is essential to creating a safer travel environment.

"Our research aims to shed light on the specific concerns related to women's safety in Indian public transport," said Bandhan Bandhu Majumdar, one of the BITS researchers. The study's recommendations include increased surveillance, improved infrastructure, and public awareness campaigns. These steps, along with policies promoting women-only transport options, could be pivotal in ensuring a safer and more inclusive public transport system in Hyderabad and beyond.

Go!