Parisar held a discussion of its study titled ‘Gender and Transport’ on 3rd October 2016 at Indradhanushya, Pune. The programme included a presentation of the findings from the project, followed by a discussion with the audience on the issue. A short documentary prepared as part of this project was also screened at the venue.
The discussion brought forth several points which should be considered for continuation of the study into a more wholesome, detailed study. Vidyut Bhagwat, who has been a Parisar member since the beginning spoke of how it would be beneficial and interesting to study different needs of women as their economic class, age, area of residence and occupation change. She felt that such multiple case studies should also provide an insight into how the city has changed over the years. Being a senior citizen herself, she pointed out that the kind of health issues men and women face over the years and consequently in mobility are different. Importantly, she said that while it was beneficial for senior citizens to walk, and many even wish to walk, the city does not provide them with a safe and comfortable walking environment.
Akshata Karpe from INHAF spoke about the role of private cabs and taxi services which were on rise in the city and the element of safety they provide for women. Amar Karan from CEE shared from personal experience that many women he knew spent a considerable amount of time traveling by public transport, struggling the most for last mile connectivity. Avadhut Abhyankar from CEE came up with the idea of quantifying the way public spaces have been shkrinking in cities and how this affects transit. This quantification should also include the quality of life component and how it is affected by the way women travel.
The report consists of the outcomes of 693 user surveys, spread across different modes and focus group discussions with different women.
To report can be foud here.
Short documentary
Media coverage
