Launch of pink taxi in twin cities demanded

Islamabad

The women folk in the twin cities also demanded launch of pink taxi service that according to them would provide a secure and congenial environment to female commuters in relatively male dominated society.

"The launch of metro bus service was a big step towards providing secure environment to the female commuters but if pink taxi service is also initiated in Islamabad and Rawalpindi then it would go an extra mile to protect the women against harassment while plying in the twin cities," said Sadia Kamal, who works in a government department.

It is pertinent to mention here that a private cab service has also introduced female drivers but their number is comparatively too low to cater to the needs of the female commuters. The female commuters often hesitate to travel with male drivers of the private cabs due to the criticism from the social sectors.

Kokab Shirazi, an employee at local non-governmental organization, said it is quite encouraging to see that various measures are being taken to provide secure environment to the female commuters who are often subjected to harassment.

She said: "We hope that pink taxi service would also be launched in the twin cities because it is going to be a big success in Lahore and Karachi. Now the time has changed and empowerment of women is necessary to embark the country on the path of progress and prosperity."