Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon has made a powerful statement on the treatment of women in politics while simultaneously announcing significant expansions to Karachi's public transport system, including the women-only Pink BRT service.
A Plea for Political Decorum and Respect
Speaking to the media at the launch of a new Pink BRT route from Numaish to Surjani, Minister Memon emphasized that women from all political parties deserve respect. He made a veiled reference to the recent treatment of PTI founder Imran Khan's sisters, stating that personal attacks on family members were inappropriate and that families were not targeted in the politics of the past.
He specifically reminded the audience about the case of Faryal Talpur, who was arrested in what he termed false cases and moved from a hospital to jail on Chand Raat. The minister stressed that such actions against women in politics should not be tolerated.
Major Expansion of Karachi's Transport Network
Shifting focus to the day's primary event, the Transport and Mass Transit Minister unveiled ambitious plans for the city's commuting infrastructure. He declared that the Pink BRT bus service will soon be extended to the Edhi Orange Line and the Green Line, greatly increasing its reach for female passengers.
In a landmark initiative for inclusivity, Memon revealed that special bikes are being prepared for children with disabilities and will be provided free of cost. He assured that the distribution process for these bikes will be accelerated through daily meetings.
New Buses and Positive Public Feedback
Adding more excitement for Karachi's commuters, the minister confirmed that double-decker buses will arrive in the province next week. Their initial operation will be on Sharae Faisal, with the possibility of route expansion based on public demand and need.
He noted that the new buses introduced as pilot projects on various corridors and BRT systems have already received positive feedback from the public. When questioned about the government's approach, Minister Memon affirmed that equality and uniformity have been strengthened through constitutional amendments, a principle guiding the transport department's mission to provide facilities to every segment of society, which he described as a shared responsibility.
