Are ST Buses Safe for Women? Travelers Speak Out After Swargate Case
Reported by Dhanashri Landge
Swargate, 27th February 2025: The recent assault case at Pune’s Swargate bus stand has raised serious concerns about the safety of women traveling on long-distance State Transport (ST) buses. To understand their experiences and fears, we spoke to several women who regularly rely on ST buses. Their stories highlight not only the dangers they face but also the urgent need for better security measures at bus stands and during travel.
Many women expressed a sense of vulnerability, especially when traveling alone or at night. “Bus stands in remote areas are poorly lit and often deserted after a certain hour. I feel unsafe even while waiting for my bus,” said a college student who frequently commutes between Pune and Solapur.
For women traveling alone, the lack of security at many bus depots adds to their anxiety. “If something happens, who will help? There are no proper security checks or female security personnel around,” said a 32-year-old self-employed woman who runs a small clothing store.
Women travelers identified several key issues contributing to their insecurity at ST bus stands:
Lack of police presence: While some bus stands have security personnel during the day, their absence at night makes these areas unsafe.
Poor lighting: Dim and isolated corners become hotspots for harassment.
No dedicated waiting areas for women: Female passengers are often forced to wait in general areas, making them more vulnerable.
“Even at Swargate, one of the busiest bus stands, I don’t feel safe standing alone at night. Authorities must improve security before another unfortunate incident occurs,” said a student traveler.
While ST buses are an affordable mode of transport, many women reported experiencing harassment during their journeys. “Some men deliberately sit too close, make inappropriate comments, or pretend to be asleep while leaning on us,” said a frequent traveler.
Many women hesitate to report such incidents due to a lack of response from staff. “Conductors often ignore complaints or simply ask the offender to change seats. There should be stricter action to prevent such incidents,” she added.
Women travelers collectively called for the following security measures:
Increased police presence at major bus stands, particularly at night.
Better lighting and CCTV cameras at bus depots.
Dedicated women’s waiting areas at all major ST bus stations.
More female security staff at bus stands and onboard night buses.
A strict complaint system for reporting harassment during travel.
The Swargate case is a stark reminder that women’s safety in public transport needs urgent attention. While ST buses remain a crucial lifeline for thousands, women should not have to travel in fear. Authorities must take immediate steps to improve security so that every woman traveling on an ST bus can do so with confidence and safety.
