Metro rail eases travel for women with reserved coaches in Dhaka

In a significant move to enhance the safety and convenience of female commuters, the metro rail authorities have designated its first coach exclusively for women. 

The initiative, in response to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's directive, has been met with relief and appreciation from female passengers who often face discomfort and challenges while using public transport in Dhaka.

On the Uttara-Agargaon route of the metro rail, several stations now feature clearly marked gates and platform sections reserved exclusively for women. 

Announcements at these stations reiterate the policy that the foremost coach is designated for women, ensuring that male passengers are promptly redirected by security personnel should they mistakenly enter this section.

Katha Islam, a passenger, expressed her gratitude for the reserved coach system, saying: "The separate coach system in the metro rail provides incredible comfort and safety for women passengers. Even in crowded situations, having all women in one coach eliminates any discomfort."

In this undated photo passengers are seen boarding the train at a metro rail station in Dhaka. Photo: Collected

Shayla Akhter, another working woman, said: "The provision of separate coaches for women on the metro rail is an extraordinary initiative. I cannot thank the government enough. I believe that such organized systems should be implemented in all areas of women's transportation, which would ultimately boost their participation in the workforce."

Lack of promotion

While some women passengers are aware of the reserved coaches and use them regularly, many others remain uninformed about this facility. 

Consequently, some women continue to face overcrowding and challenges in other coaches. 

Furthermore, some male passengers are unaware of the policy and accidentally enter the women’s coach. Therefore, regular female commuters believe that increased awareness campaigns are necessary to maximize the benefits of the metro rail's women-only coaches.

Shammi Ahmed, a frequent metro rail commuter, emphasized the need for better awareness. 

She said: "Many women passengers are still unaware of the reserved coach policy. I have often witnessed curious individuals asking about it. There are also some male passengers who inadvertently enter the women's coach during crowded times. With effective campaigns, women passengers could enjoy greater benefits from the Metro Rail system."