In a stride toward women's safety and senior citizens' convenience, the Assam Government launched the Bhraman Sarathi (Pink) Buses on January 9, 2021, offering free transport services exclusively for women and senior citizens within Guwahati.
The initiative, flagged off by the then Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, aimed to enhance safety and accessibility.
However, just a year after its inception, the fleet of pink buses has dwindled to a mere four, according to a notice by the Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC).
The reduction is attributed to low passenger traffic, leaving residents questioning the fate of this once-praised initiative.
The Bhraman Sarathi Buses, known for their distinctive pink hue, provided a sense of security for women and ease of travel for senior citizens.
Initially, 25 buses were introduced under the scheme, symbolizing a progressive step towards inclusive public transportation in Guwahati.
Talking to GPlus, Nabanita Baruah, a regular commuter said, “It was much easier earlier when the pink buses were on the streets. Especially after sundown, most city buses get crowded – pink buses came to rescue us women and the elderly during such times.”
69-year-old Pankaj Das said, “With the pink buses on the street, atleast there were a few options for the elderly. Now even though there are hundreds of buses plying, it is difficult to get on them during rush hours. Even more difficult to find seats.”
However, a year after its launch, ASTC revealed a drastic cutback, with only four buses having the services in specific routes – two from Khanapara to Jalukbari and the other two catering to the Bonda-Narengi Jalukbari route.
“Where have the buses gone? No one informed us. They are using our money to buy these buses.It was a grand affair during the launch of these facilities, but slowly they were taken off the streets and no one informed us why? Were they repainted into different buses? Were they scrapped? Where are they? No one knows,” another resident questioned.
The once-vibrant pink buses that became synonymous with safety and convenience for women and senior citizens in Guwahati have mysteriously vanished from the city's streets.
Surprisingly, the ASTC authorities don’t have a specific reason for the shrinking of the services.
But, residents in Guwahati, especially women and senior citizens are not at all happy with it.