Karachi – In a significant move to promote women’s empowerment and independence, the Sindh Transport Department, in collaboration with the Sindh Mass Transit Authority (SMTA) , distributed 300 pink electric scooters among women on Sunday, marking International Women’s Day.
The distribution ceremony was held at a local hotel and attended by senior government officials, lawmakers, and representatives of civil society.
A Step Towards Empowerment
Addressing the gathering, Provincial Minister for Information Sharjeel Inam Memon extended his greetings to women on their special day, emphasizing the central role they play in society. He highlighted that the provincial government has launched several initiatives aimed at empowering women, including the Pink Bus Service, which notably employs women drivers.
Minister Memon announced that the new “Pink Scooty Programme” is specifically designed to facilitate women’s mobility and reduce their travel costs.
“The aim of the Pink Scooty Programme is to empower women, enable them to travel independently and bring a positive change in society,” he stated. He added that the government’s broader vision is to make women economically independent and to help shift societal attitudes regarding their role.
Eligibility and Training
According to the minister, applicants for the programme are required to possess a permanent driving licence and provide proof of either education or employment. To ensure the programme’s success, the government will also provide free driving training to eligible women.
The ceremony was attended by a host of provincial ministers, including Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, Saeed Ghani, and Qasim Siraj Soomro, as well as Karachi’s Deputy Mayor Salman Murad. Other notable attendees included members of the PPP Ladies Wing, women lawmakers, and social figures.
The event was also addressed by Provincial Minister Shahina Sher Ali, Nafisa Shah, Sharmila Farooqui, acclaimed filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, and SMTA Managing Director Kanwal Nizam Bhutto, among others, who collectively lauded the initiative as a positive step forward for women’s rights and mobility in the province.
