Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman Orders Women-Only Bus Service for Dhaka

Prime Minister Directs New Initiative

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman of Bangladesh has issued a directive for the launch of a dedicated city bus service exclusively for women in the capital, Dhaka. The instruction was given on Monday, March 2, 2026, during a meeting at the Secretariat with Road Transport and Bridges Minister Sheikh Rabiul Alam. The Prime Minister's Additional Press Secretary, Atikur Rahman Rumon, confirmed the directive, stating that the aim is to make public transport 'safer and more comfortable' for female passengers.

Addressing Commuter Safety and Comfort

The decision comes in response to persistent challenges faced by women using public transportation in Dhaka, including issues of harassment, overcrowding, and a lack of reserved seating. Reports indicate that a significant number of female commuters experience various forms of harassment on public transport. A survey by the Aachol Foundation revealed that over 60% of female adolescents in Dhaka who use public transport have experienced some form of harassment. The Prime Minister emphasized the necessity of a people-friendly, efficient, and safe transport network, particularly for women, drawing insights from London's transport system.

Service Details and Implementation Plan

The new women-only bus service is planned to operate across all major routes within Dhaka city. A key feature of the service will be its staffing, with all personnel, including the driver, supervisor, and helper, being women. During the meeting, transport expert and BUET Professor Shamsul Haque, who was present, outlined a 180-day action plan. This plan prioritizes restoring discipline in bus operations and launching an 'appealing, safe, and specialized' bus service for women. The roadmap also includes the consideration of recruiting female drivers and the gradual introduction of electric buses to modernize the public transport network and reduce pollution. Authorities also intend to implement zone-based pilot programs to optimize passenger coverage and integrate with existing transport systems like the metro rail and Bus Rapid Transit (BRT).

Historical Context and Future Outlook

While previous initiatives for women-only bus services by the Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation (BRTC) have been introduced in the past, some faced challenges and were discontinued due to factors such as low profitability and operational difficulties. This new directive signals a renewed government commitment to providing a sustainable and secure commuting option for women in Dhaka. The Road Transport and Bridges Minister, Sheikh Rabiul Alam, confirmed that the service will be operated across all major routes, though a specific launch date or the exact number and types of buses were not disclosed at the time of the announcement.