Quetta Launches Historic ‘Pink Bus Service’ to Boost Women’s Mobility and Safety

QUETTA: In a significant stride toward inclusive urban development, the Balochistan government has rolled out the province's first-ever dedicated public transport system for women. The "Pink Bus Service" commenced operations in the provincial capital at the start of the new year, aiming to provide female students and professionals with a secure and dignified commuting option.

Dedicated Route for Education and Work

The inaugural phase of the project introduces five buses exclusively for women. According to provincial transport authorities, these buses will operate on a key arterial route connecting the Brewery area (Baleli) to the University of Balochistan via Sariab Road. This route was strategically selected to facilitate thousands of students and working women who previously faced challenges commuting on mixed public transport.

Transport Secretary Hayat Kakar and Regional Transport Authority (RTA) Secretary Ali Khan confirmed that this launch is part of a broader "Phase 2" expansion of the city's public transit. Alongside the five Pink Buses, the government has added 16 new buses to the existing Green Bus fleet, bringing the total number of new vehicles to 21.

A Social Reform Agenda

Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, in a statement released on social media, termed the initiative a vital piece of social reform rather than just a transport project. He highlighted that safe transportation is a fundamental right and a prerequisite for women to access education, healthcare, and employment opportunities without fear or hesitation.

Prior to this, women in Quetta traveled on the general Green Bus Service, which often led to overcrowding and privacy concerns. The new service addresses these issues by offering a women-only space, a move the Chief Minister described as essential for promoting "women’s safety, independence, and social inclusion."

Expansion Plans for Major Cities

The government has signaled that this is only the beginning of a province-wide overhaul of public transport. Officials revealed plans to introduce similar eco-friendly bus services in four other major cities across Balochistan in the near future. The Chief Minister has directed authorities to ensure the Pink Bus Service operates on a permanent, sustainable basis, with plans to expand its coverage to other districts to benefit a wider demographic.