When a woman sits behind the steering wheel of a bus, it is not merely a vehicle that moves forward—the mindset of society moves forward as well. Therefore, the initiative to introduce women-operated bus services across the country should not be viewed simply as a transportation project. Its true significance lies in the possibility that it could mark the beginning of a major social transformation toward women’s safe mobility, employment, and self-reliance.

If the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) has been a pioneer in such an initiative, then a government led by Tarique Rahman, following that example, could take the initiative to introduce women-operated bus services throughout the country. This would be a bold and timely step. Here, women would not serve merely as drivers; they would take responsibility in all three roles—as drivers, conductors, and helpers.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) established an exemplary precedent by according women equal dignity alongside men in the use and management of the means of transportation of his time, including camels and horses. Today, the progressive participation of women in bus transportation can likewise be seen as an expression of that spirit of the Prophet’s teachings.

The greatest impact could be felt in ensuring women’s safe mobility. On public transport, women often face harassment, inappropriate behavior, and the risk of sexual violence. A women-operated transportation system could reduce these risks while creating a more comfortable environment for female passengers. It could particularly inspire greater confidence among working women, students, and young women.

However, the initiative should not remain limited to buses. Women’s participation could also be expanded in ride-sharing and motorcycle services. Female passengers could travel to offices, universities, and workplaces on motorcycles operated by women—giving priority to their own needs and safety. This would not only increase women’s freedom of movement but also create new employment opportunities.

We have seen that as women have advanced in the medical profession, the need for male practitioners in the treatment of women’s health issues has diminished significantly. Similarly, women’s participation in the police force and other professions has made it possible for women to conduct searches and security checks on other women. In other words, as women’s presence increases in a profession, the social character of that profession gradually changes as well.

The same transformation is now poised to take place in the transportation sector. When one woman drives a bus, another issues tickets, and another assists passengers, a visible message about women’s capabilities in the workplace will spread throughout society. A job that is considered a “man’s job” today may become an equally accessible profession for both women and men tomorrow.

However, one point must be made clear: simply employing women will not, by itself, guarantee safe transportation. What is needed are properly trained drivers, strict safety regulations, CCTV cameras, GPS tracking, emergency assistance systems, fair wages, a suitable working environment, and accountability toward passengers. At the same time, the safety and security of female drivers and other women employees must also be ensured.

Women-operated bus services, therefore, are not merely a transportation project. They could become an integrated model combining women’s employment, safe mobility, dignity, and social empowerment.

Today, a woman sits behind the steering wheel.

Tomorrow, that same woman may support her household, educate her children, and take a leading role in her family’s financial well-being. And one day, society may no longer be surprised but simply accept it as normal: women drive buses, women ride motorcycles—this is simply the way it should be.

That day will mark the true beginning of a social revolution.