Shimla, April 9: In a significant move toward enhancing women’s safety and mobility, a 24×7 women-only taxi service was launched in Shimla by the NGO The Society for Connecting Lives. The initiative, aimed at providing safe, reliable, and affordable transportation for women within the Shimla Municipal Corporation limits, was officially flagged off by Mayor Surender Chauhan on Tuesday.
Bimla Thakur, president of the NGO, said the organization focuses on supporting single mothers and widowed women. Initially piloted in February with a private vehicle, the initiative has now expanded with the purchase of a commercial taxi, which will be driven by a woman and exclusively serve female passengers.
Women can book the service by calling 9418956561. An app is under development and expected to launch within two months for easier bookings. Plans are also in place to grow the fleet, creating employment opportunities for women drivers.
Mayor Chauhan praised the effort, calling it a much-needed initiative for women’s safety and empowerment. As a mark of support, he pledged to donate 50% of his monthly salary to the NGO and announced the allocation of a free parking space near the Lift to assist the operation.
