In the interest of women commuters who travel by Namma Metro, several students from a city college are collecting signatures demanding a separate metro coach.
Over 50 students will be standing at metro stations across the city this week and will be talking to commuters to garner support for their project.
The outreach centre of St Joseph’s College (Autonomous) are hoping to get 30,000 signatures by the end of the week and will later approach the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Ltd. authorities.
Unwanted gaze
Viola Noronha, assistant professor, Department of Social Work, said the idea was triggered after she and her students found it difficult to move in and out of the crowded coaches. “Many women have to face unwanted gaze or touch. So we demand a separate coach as in other cities,” she said.
Uttara Harikumar, third year BSW student, said their campaign is being received well. “Many women, who signed the petition, said they had been harassed on the metro but felt helpless,” said Ms. Harikumar.
Third year BSW student Sumanth said he had collected 90 signatures from commuters.
“However, the response has been mixed,” he said. While some women want separate coaches, others feel there is no need for gender segregation.
