Daijiworld Media Network- Panaji

Panaji, May 22: In a decisive move to enhance public transport safety, especially for women and children, Goa’s Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho on Wednesday launched the ‘Safety First – Empowering and Protecting Women and Children in Goa’ initiative at the Kadamba Bus Stand in Panaji.

The initiative, driven by growing concerns over safety in public vehicles, involves the strategic placement of awareness posters and emergency helpline stickers inside Kadamba Transport Corporation (KTC) buses, private buses, taxis, and rickshaws. These stickers will prominently display updated contact numbers for critical services including Childline, Women’s Helpline, Goa Police, and other emergency responders.

Speaking at the launch, Godinho stated, “Whether it is a bus, taxi, or rickshaw, women commuters should feel safe. Their safety is our priority. The helpline empowers them to take action when needed.” He further emphasised that with rising reports of untoward incidents in public transport, awareness and proactive measures are essential for prevention.

The initiative is a collaborative effort between the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP), Goa Police, and SCAN – Goa, a social organisation. Implemented in two phases, the campaign began with safety hoardings on electric poles across Panaji. The second and ongoing phase focuses on disseminating helpline stickers across Goa’s bus stands and public transport fleet.

A representative from SCAN Goa added insight into the ground reality: “We receive an average of 30 safety-related cases every month. Many citizens are still unaware that the police helpline number is now 112, not the old 100. This campaign is geared towards prevention and awareness, to make public transport a safe space.”

The effort is part of a broader push by the Goa government to ensure gender-sensitive and child-friendly public spaces, aligning with national goals on women and child safety.

Citizens are encouraged to actively use the helpline numbers and report any incidents or threats they face while commuting.