Women-Only Metro Coaches Face Enforcement Challenges in Nagpur Nagpur: MahaMetro’s initiative to introduce women-only coaches under the “Nari Shakti” program, aimed at ensuring safer travel for female commuters, is encountering significant challenges as male passengers frequently disregard the rules. Despite clear signage designating specific carriages for women, reports indicate that the policy is being flouted at multiple metro stations, raising concerns about its effectiveness. A recent investigation by The Times of India revealed that male passengers are often seen occupying the reserved compartments, with commuters expressing frustration over the lack of enforcement. Women travelers, in particular, have voiced discomfort, citing safety concerns and a reluctance to confront offenders. “It is extremely annoying and uncomfortable. There are almost always a few men in the reserved coach, but we generally avoid objecting because we do not want any trouble,” said an anonymous female commuter. Some women also noted that the presence of men accompanying female passengers exacerbates the awkwardness of the situation. Enforcement of the rule appears inconsistent, with security personnel focusing primarily on the Sitabuldi interchange station. Commuters reported that once trains depart Sitabuldi, men frequently enter the women-only coaches without facing consequences. A 17-year-old passenger highlighted the issue, stating, “We often see men entering the coach within a few stations after Sitabuldi, and there is nobody to stop them.” The absence of penalties for violations has reportedly encouraged further disregard for the policy. A security guard stationed at Sitabuldi acknowledged the problem, noting that an average of five male passengers are found in women-only coaches during each service.#the_times_of_india #mahaMetro #nari_shakti #sitabuldi_interchange #mahaMetro_official
