NCRTC Enhances Women's Safety on Namo Bharat with Nirbhaya Fund Initiatives
The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC), responsible for executing the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS corridor, is implementing comprehensive safety measures for women commuters using the Nirbhaya Fund. This initiative includes the installation of 250 CCTV cameras and LED streetlights outside Namo Bharat stations, along with the procurement of pink e-autos operated by women to strengthen last-mile connectivity.
Security Infrastructure and Gender Sensitisation Campaign
NCRTC has received Rs 5 crore from the Nirbhaya Fund in the current financial year to support these efforts. The corporation has also launched a gender sensitisation campaign titled ‘Aakankshaon Ke Pankh’, formally inaugurated at the Sarai Kale Khan Namo Bharat station on Tuesday. This campaign aims to raise awareness about women's safety while highlighting the various measures implemented across the Namo Bharat system to ensure a secure travel environment.
An NCRTC official provided details on the progress: "CCTV cameras are already installed inside trains and station premises. Of the 250 CCTV cameras planned outside stations, installation has been completed at some locations, including Sarai Kale Khan in Delhi and stations in Meerut such as Begumpul, Brahmpuri, Meerut North, and Rithani." The official added that LED streetlights have been installed outside all stations along the Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut corridor to eliminate blind spots and enhance visibility during nighttime.
Last-Mile Connectivity and Additional Safety Features
For last-mile connectivity, the Nirbhaya Fund will be utilized to deploy pink e-autos driven by women from Namo Bharat stations. Similar services are currently operational at several metro stations, providing a proven model for safe and reliable transportation. Other safety measures introduced by NCRTC include:
- An SOS feature on the ‘Namo Bharat Connect’ mobile app for immediate assistance.
- A dedicated women's safety helpline to address concerns and emergencies.
- Awareness initiatives through films, nukkad nataks (street plays), workshops, and community engagement activities.
To foster public participation, a ‘Gratitude Wall’ was inaugurated at the Sarai Kale Khan station. This wall invites commuters to share handwritten notes recognizing women who have positively influenced their lives. It will remain at the station for the coming months to encourage ongoing community involvement.
Long-Term Vision for Safe Commuting
Speaking at the campaign launch, NCRTC Managing Director Shalabh Goel emphasized the long-term goals: "This five-year initiative aims to build awareness and encourage social participation to ensure a safe and reliable commute for women across the Namo Bharat system." The comprehensive approach combines technological upgrades, infrastructure improvements, and community-driven efforts to create a safer travel ecosystem.
These measures reflect NCRTC's commitment to leveraging the Nirbhaya Fund effectively, addressing both immediate safety concerns and fostering a culture of respect and security for women passengers. The integration of CCTV surveillance, enhanced lighting, and female-operated transport options sets a new standard for public transportation safety in the region.
