2 min read
Karachi: The Sindh government has launched a scheme to provide free “pink scooters” to women through a lottery system, aiming to enhance mobility and independence for female commuters across the province.
Announcing the initiative at a press conference in Karachi, Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon emphasized the government’s dedication to facilitating safe and accessible transportation for women.
“A driving licence is mandatory for women to participate in the scheme,” Memon stated that the lucky draw would be conducted at an open event.
The initiative is a direct result of the provincial government’s introduction of the ‘Pink Bus’ service in 2023, which is exclusively designed for female passengers. Memon also disclosed intentions to implement a “pink taxi” service, which would feature female chauffeurs.
The minister stated that the programs were designed to foster women’s autonomy and offer secure transportation alternatives.
Additionally, the minister declared that Sindh will implement a uniform registration system for all vehicles.
The announcement is made in the context of an increase in traffic-related fatalities in the provincial capital, where over 130 individuals have perished and over 1,800 have been injured in incidents this year, according to reports.
On the other hand, there were almost 500 deaths in 2024. The rise in accidents has led to protests, and frustrated rioters have set fire to cars that were in accidents.
Memon stated that the Sindh government had established a committee to address road safety concerns, and that the provincial government would receive the proceeds from the auction of number plates. “The decision will help streamline vehicle registration across the province,” Memon said at a press conference.
He also criticized the federal government, asserting that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had promised 180 buses for Karachi, but none were included in the federal budget for 2025. “We will write a letter to the Prime Minister, urging him to fulfil his promise,” Memon added.
The minister declared that the Sindh cabinet had authorized the Dow Science Foundation’s establishment and authorized the procurement of additional vehicles for the province. The K-IV water project for Keenjhar Lake and the Karachi Water and Sewerage Line project were also approved by the cabinet.
