Most women experience discomfort in RTC buses; unaware of safety tools: Study

A study by EThames Business School found that over half of women using TGSRTC buses face discomfort, with limited awareness of safety tools. The study urges systemic reforms, including gender-sensitivity training and tech-based complaint systems to enhance commuter safety

Hyderabad: Most of the women passengers travelling in the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TGSRTC) buses have reported experiencing discomfort during their journey and a significant number were either unaware of or had ever used any safety tool like apps or helplines.

A recent study by a group of young researchers from EThames Business School emphasized the need for greater support systems, awareness, and shared commuter responsibility.

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TGSRTC operates over 9,000 buses daily, serving more than 40 lakh commuters across Telangana, a significant proportion of them women.

However, with the rise in ridership, the challenges of overcrowding, comfort, and safety also grow. This study by EThames aims to positively contribute to existing efforts by highlighting practical, implementable suggestions to improve travel dignity for all.

The study was conducted over 43 days, and surveyed 480 women passengers and held over 20 interviews across bus routes in Hyderabad.

While 52 per cent of the surveyed respondents reported having experienced discomfort, only 23 per cent were aware of or had used safety tools like apps or helplines.

Key concerns included overcrowding, undertrained staff, and limited complaint visibility.

The student researchers proposed enhancements to the existing system to make public transport more respectful and responsive.

The recommendations for a safer, inclusive ride include Gender sensitivity training for RTC staff, QR-code-based complaint systems in buses and terminals, improved lighting and clean toilets at key bus stops, women-only buses during peak hours, and bystander training to empower fellow commuters and collaborative policing with plainclothes and uniformed staff.

TGSRTC Managing Director VC Sajjanar said the RTC was committed to strengthening women safety and dignity.

“We appreciate the EThames study, and many of its suggestions are already being addressed, from increasing bus frequency to crew training, safety helplines, CCTV, bus tracking apps, and collaboration with She Teams. Continuous improvement remains our priority.”