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Women conductors empower pilgrims during Navratri
24 Mar
Summary
- Women conductors deployed on special Navratri buses to Vindhyachal.
- Mission Shakti initiative aims for women's self-reliance and safety.
- Bus frequency increased from 21 to 86 for Navratri travel.
During the Navratri festival, Uttar Pradesh is promoting women's empowerment through a notable initiative involving bus conductors. The Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) has deployed women conductors on select 'Puja Special' buses, with a specific focus on routes leading to the pilgrimage site of Vindhyachal. This move is part of the broader Mission Shakti initiative.
Ten women conductors have been assigned to buses heading towards Vindhyachal, and a total of 40 women are currently employed as conductors in the Varanasi region. Officials emphasize that this deployment not only encourages self-reliance and responsibility among women but also conveys a strong message of empowerment during a festival honoring Goddess Durga.
Passenger feedback suggests that the presence of women conductors has contributed to an increased sense of safety and comfort, especially for female travelers. To accommodate the surge in devotees, the UPSRTC has substantially increased bus services on these routes. The number of operational buses has risen from approximately 21 on normal days to 86 during Navratri, with 65 additional buses introduced. These enhanced services are available from all eight depots within the Varanasi region, facilitating convenient travel for pilgrims.
