BRTC Pink Bus for Women Faces Passenger Shortages and Long Waits in Dhaka
The exclusive women's bus service introduced by BRTC to ensure safe travel is encountering low passenger numbers and delayed trips. Passengers nevertheless appreciate the relief from the discomforts typical of regular public transport.
The state-run Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation (BRTC) recently launched a dedicated Pink Bus service tailored specifically to provide women with a safe and comfortable commuting experience across Dhaka. Operating through key city points including Motijheel, Shapla Chattar, and Karwan Bazar, this specialized transport initiative was officially rolled out on August 18.
Despite the safety-oriented objective, the service has immediately confronted operational challenges, most notably severe passenger shortages and long wait times. On a recent Thursday morning at the Motijheel starting point, a designated 60-seat bus found itself departing with a mere two passengers on board, highlighting the initial lack of ridership.
As the journey progressed, the situation improved only marginally. After a grueling one-hour transit time to reach Karwan Bazar, the total passenger count inside the spacious 60-seat vehicle had inched upward to just 12 people, illustrating the persistent struggle to attract commuters during the trip.
To assist with initial operations and provide various forms of guidance during this rollout phase, male assistants are currently stationed on board the Pink Buses alongside the female travelers. Tickets for the journey are priced at 17 Taka, offering an affordable fare structure for those who choose to utilize the service.
Commuters who do patronize the line have voiced strong support for the concept, emphasizing the contrast with ordinary transport options. Passenger Nuri Islam noted that while boarding other buses requires constant vigilance regarding personal safety and creates lingering discomfort about surroundings, the pink bus eliminates that daily pressure entirely.
