A new online ride-hailing service, SheDrives, has been launched in the city, exclusively for women and transgender individuals. This service aims to provide safe transportation, where all drivers and customers will be either women or transgender people.
Ammaz Farooqi, the CEO of SheDrives, shared that the initiative is part of a larger effort to empower the transgender community in Pakistan. Farooqi mentioned their ongoing work on the country’s first gender guardian school project, which focuses on providing skills and education to transgender individuals. SheDrives is the next step to address the transportation challenges faced by women and transgender people.
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Drivers who can operate bikes, cars, or rickshaws are encouraged to register for the service. Security is a top priority, and the app includes a “help” button that, when pressed, connects directly to the Safe Cities Authority for real-time tracking.
Shaista Pervaiz Malik, a Member of the National Assembly, praised the project, highlighting its potential to provide economic opportunities and safe travel for women and transgender individuals. Hina Pervaiz Butt, Chairperson of the Punjab Women Protection Authority, added that safe transportation is crucial, as many women quit education or avoid jobs due to safety concerns. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting women.
A transgender person, Maya, expressed hope, saying the service will offer respectable employment and help address the security issues faced by the transgender community.
