Women drivers

Published April 13, 2024

AS a concerned resident of Karachi, I feel compelled to spread the word around about the challenges that are encountered by women drivers in the city. Such issues often go unnoticed, but they have a significant impact on the lives of many.

In recent years, there has been a notable increase in the number of women seen driving on the streets owing to better means of mobility and a bit more social pace. While this is a positive development, it has also brought to light the various hurdles and obstacles faced by women drivers on a daily basis. One of the primary issues faced by women drivers in Karachi is the prevalence of harassment and intimidation on the roads.

Unfortunately, many women have reported instants of verbal abuse, catcalling, and even physical harassment while driving, which has not only undermined their confidence, but also jeopardised their safety. Such behaviour creates a hostile environment that discourages women from freely exercising their right to mobility.

Moreover, cultural norms as well as stereotypes surrounding women drivers contribute to marginalisation and discrimination on the roads. Women often face prejudice and scepticism regarding their driving abilities, leading to instances of road rage and aggression from their male counterparts. This affects their confidence and perpetuates gender biases in society.

In the light of these challenges, it is imperative for the authorities to take concrete steps to address the concerns of women drivers in Karachi. This includes implementing stringent laws against harassment, and launching awareness campaigns to promote sanity on the roads.

Yamna Ahmed
Karachi

Published in Dawn, April 13th, 2024

Opinion

Editorial

Rushed legislation
Updated 06 Nov, 2024

Rushed legislation

For all its stress on "supremacy of parliament", the ruling coalition has wasted no opportunity to reiterate where its allegiances truly lie.
Jail reform policy
06 Nov, 2024

Jail reform policy

THE state is making a fresh attempt to improve conditions in Pakistan’s penitentiaries by developing a national...
BISP overhaul
06 Nov, 2024

BISP overhaul

IT has emerged that the spouses of over 28,500 Sindh government employees have been illicitly benefiting from BISP....
Smog hazard
Updated 05 Nov, 2024

Smog hazard

The catastrophe unfolding in Lahore is a product of authorities’ repeated failure to recognise environmental impact of rapid urbanisation.
Monetary policy
05 Nov, 2024

Monetary policy

IN an aggressive move, the State Bank on Monday reduced its key policy rate by a hefty 250bps to 15pc. This is the...
Cultural power
05 Nov, 2024

Cultural power

AS vital modes of communication, art and culture have the power to overcome social and international barriers....