The staffers must be told about the guideline in clear and precise terms so that they do know they have to implement this if a woman raises a red flag.
This picture has been used for representational purpose
A letter to the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) from a passenger from a rural part of the state expressing concern has the service all ears. The letter raises concerns that dimming lights inside buses during overnight journeys may mean danger to women. The officials have said they have instructed staffers that lights are not to be dimmed if women raise concerns about the same during the journey.
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This is a good response from the transport corporation, but it must ensure that the communication has been precise and percolated down to all the levels of the bus service. The staffers must be told about the guideline in clear and precise terms so that they do know they have to implement this if a woman raises a red flag.
We have seen that though there have been responses in principle, sometimes the best of intentions gets lost in confusing and ineffective communication. Then, officials of a service are talking at cross purposes with each other. When they themselves do not seem to be absolutely clear about rules, then how does one expect them to implement anything in the correct spirit, or even earn the confidence of commuters? That is why the importance of watertight relaying of orders or guidelines so that there is absolutely no grey area.
On the same track but slightly veering away this also shows how important it is to have good lighting at all public infrastructure in the city. From subways to skywalks, even patches on the road, every single bus stop, train platforms must be well-lit, otherwise they pose a very real danger to women. It is vital services respond quickly and appropriately when these are pointed out as they are extremely valid points. Good, bright, lighting is a non-negotiable for people and may seem trivial but a huge factor for safety.