Gangtok, May 27: President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday flagged off buses exclusively for women in Gangtok.
The ‘Pink City Runner – Aama Didi Bahini Bus Sewa’ was launched at Ridge Park in the presence of Governor Om Prakash Mathur and Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang.
Officials said the service is unique as it is operated entirely by women, creating a secure and empowering environment for women commuters across the state.
The Pink City Runner buses will operate between Ranipool and the Secretariat in Gangtok at a fare of Rs 25, covering a distance of nearly 12 km, they said.
The buses are equipped with CCTV surveillance systems, mobile charging points and air-conditioning facilities to ensure a safe and comfortable travel experience, they added.
“It is a moment of immense pride for us to witness the launch of the Pink City Runner — Aama Didi Bahini Bus Sewa, our government’s unique initiative inaugurated by the Hon’ble President of India, Droupadi Murmu Ji,” Tamang said in a social media post.
The chief minister said the initiative marks an important step towards ensuring safe, affordable and convenient transportation exclusively for women commuters.
He said the project reflects the state government’s commitment to women’s empowerment and encouraging greater participation of women in education, employment and social activities.
“Such progressive initiatives not only promote gender equality but also strengthen and modernise public transportation services in the country,” he said.
