Parisar has released a new report titled 'Gender Action Plan Framework for Pune', authored by Tanzeel Allapur, examining the safety, accessibility, and everyday experiences of women using public bus services operated by Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Limited (PMPML).
The study draws on a survey of 540 women commuters, focus group discussions with women from service-sector backgrounds, and bus stop infrastructure audits at seven locations in Hadapsar. The findings show that while buses remain an essential and affordable mode of transport for many women, several systemic barriers, such as long waiting times, unsafe walking routes to bus stops, overcrowding, and limited staff intervention in harassment cases, continue to affect their mobility.
The report highlights that public transport plays a crucial role in enabling women’s access to education, employment, and essential services. However, gaps in infrastructure, safety systems, and institutional accountability often force women to alter travel patterns, choose opportunities closer to home, or shift toward private vehicles despite financial constraints.
The Hadapsar study serves as a pilot framework, demonstrating how gender-sensitive assessments of public transport can be conducted at the neighbourhood level. The report proposes that this methodology be replicated across different parts of Pune, enabling the development of a comprehensive citywide Gender Action Plan for PMPML. Read the full report here.
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Media Coverage:
1. NGO submits report to PMPML on making buses inclusive for women - Indian Express
2. 57% of Women Anxious on Pune Buses: Parisar Submits 'Gender Action Plan' to PMPML for Safer Commutes - Punekar News
3. ‘पीएमपी’त महिला असुरक्षित; ‘परिसर’चा अहवाल; ५७ टक्के प्रवाशांमध्ये चिंतेचे वातावरण - Sakal