Empowering Women’s Mobility in Punjab, Pakistan

 

Introduction

The Women on Wheels (WoW) project, initiated by the Government of Punjab, is a transformative endeavor aimed at enhancing women’s mobility and autonomy. By breaking down barriers and empowering women to ride motorcycles, this program not only promotes gender equality but also fosters economic opportunities. Let’s delve into the details of this remarkable initiative.

Understanding WoW

Why Is It Needed?

In Pakistan, women face numerous challenges when it comes to mobility:

• Lack of access to transport services.
• Low vehicle ownership.
• Dependence on male family members for transportation.
• Unsafe public spaces and street harassment.

The WoW project seeks to address these issues head-on.

What Does WoW Offer?

1. Motorcycle Training:

   • Over 180 women and girls have been trained to ride motorcycles.
   • Motorcycles are the primary mode of transportation in Pakistan, making this skill crucial for independence.

2. Reclaiming Public Spaces:

   • WoW empowers women to reclaim public spaces confidently.
   • By riding motorcycles, they challenge societal norms and stereotypes.

3. Anti-Harassment Knowledge:

   • Participants learn about anti-harassment laws, helplines, and protections.
   • This knowledge equips them to combat road harassment effectively.

4. Road Safety Training & Licenses:

   • WoW ensures that women ride safely and legally.
   • Obtaining licenses opens up new avenues for employment.

Impact and Alignment with SDGs

1. Gender Equality (SDG 5):

   • WoW provides skills-based training, improving women’s mobility and autonomy.
   • It breaks down gender barriers and promotes equal opportunities.

2. Reducing Inequalities (SDG 10):

   • By removing mobility constraints, WoW reduces disparities.
   • Women gain access to education, work, and economic independence.

3. Quality Education (SDG 4):

   • When women can move freely, they can pursue education more effectively.

4. Decent Work and Economic Opportunities (SDG 8):

   • WoW enables women to find decent work and contribute to the formal economy.

Maryam Nawaz’s Vision

1. Inclusive Empowerment:

   • Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz champions WoW as a tool for inclusive governance.
   • She believes in empowering every citizen, regardless of gender.

2. Historic Milestone:

   • As Punjab’s first female Chief Minister, Maryam celebrates this historic milestone.
   • She encourages other women to break barriers and participate fully.

3. Dialogue and Democracy:

   • Maryam welcomes dissenting voices, fostering a healthy democracy.
   • Her commitment to dialogue ensures progress.

Conclusion

The WoW project isn’t just about motorcycles; it’s about freedom, dignity, and progress. As women ride confidently through the streets of Punjab, they redefine norms and inspire generations. Let us continue supporting this movement—one ride at a time.

References:

1. Women on Wheels (WoW) | Sustainable Development Goals - Punjab
2. VOA: ‘Women on Wheels’ in Pakistan’s Punjab Province Aimed at Expanding Workforce

Discover how the Women on Wheels (WoW) project in Punjab is breaking down barriers and empowering women to ride motorcycles. Learn about motorcycle training, reclaiming public spaces, and Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s vision for inclusive governance Women on Wheels WoW project Punjab Women’s mobility Motorcycle training