Women’s Mobility in Pakistan – Safer Transport Pilot

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Terms of Reference
 
Assignment Summary :
Scoping Study to inform a Request for Proposal of a pilot project aimed at facilitating female mobility in two districts in Pakistan . 
Approved Level of Effort:
20 days
Planned Start Date :
Feb15, 2010 
Planned End Date:
March 5, 2010 
Women’s mobility in Pakistan has long been a barrier to equal access in education, employment, and essential services. Safe, reliable transportation is not just a convenience — it is a necessity for women who want to study, work, and contribute to the economy. To address this, a pilot project is being designed to introduce women-only transport facilities in Pakistan’s major cities.
This initiative aims to create safer commuting options, reduce harassment, and empower women to step confidently into public spaces. For job seekers, students, and young professionals, such solutions open doors to opportunities that were previously restricted due to mobility challenges.

Why Women’s Mobility Matters

Cultural norms in Pakistan have historically limited women’s movement outside the home, especially in rural areas. Even in urban centers, women face harassment, insecurity, and discrimination in public transport. These challenges often prevent them from:
  • Accessing higher education.
  • Applying for jobs that require travel.
  • Participating in training or social programs.

Globally, countries like India, Egypt, Mexico, Brazil, and the UAE have introduced women-only transportation, proving such systems to be both socially inclusive and financially viable. Pakistan now has the opportunity to follow suit.

Goals of the Pilot Project
The project, supported by USAID Pakistan Jobs, will conduct a scoping study to build an evidence-based plan for women-only transportation services. Key objectives include:

  • Identifying the best routes in Karachi and Islamabad for piloting women-only buses or vans.
  • Engaging private transport companies and individual operators to test willingness and capacity.
  • Evaluating the economic feasibility of women-only transport models.
  • Involving public sector stakeholders to ensure sustainability and policy support.
  • Developing two to three business models that balance safety, affordability, and profitability.

How the Study Will Be Conducted
The consultancy will use a mixed-method approach:

  1. Field Research – Interviewing transport providers, women commuters, and local authorities.

  2. Literature Review – Studying successful women-only transport systems globally.

  3. Route Analysis – Identifying urban areas with the highest demand from female passengers.

  4. Stakeholder Mapping – Listing private operators, universities, and employers likely to adopt or support this model.

Expected Deliverables
The scoping study will deliver:

  • A problem statement highlighting barriers to women’s mobility.

  • Business models for women-only transport, designed to be financially viable.

  • Stakeholder database with key public and private contacts.

  • Marketing strategies to attract female commuters and institutions.

  • Recommendations on pilot routes for immediate implementation.

Who Will Lead the Study
A consultant with expertise in transport management, women’s mobility, and social research will lead the project. The expert is expected to have:

  • At least 10 years of experience in transport research and feasibility studies.

  • Strong understanding of Pakistan’s local context.

  • Proven skills in designing inclusive business models.

  • Excellent research and writing skills.

Conclusion
Improving women’s mobility in Pakistan is not just about transport — it’s about unlocking access to education, jobs, and independence. This pilot project marks a step toward a safer, more inclusive society. For students, job seekers, and professionals, women-only transportation can become a bridge to better opportunities and a stronger role in Pakistan’s economic future.

 

Author

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