Amman:Social Development Minister Wafa Bani Mustafa chaired a meeting of the Ministerial Committee for Women's Empowerment to deliberate on an action plan aimed at enhancing women's access to "safe, affordable" public transport.
According to Jordan News Agency, Transport and Labor Minister Nidal Qatamin, along with several committee members, participated in the meeting. Bani Mustafa emphasized that the plan is a national framework within the second Executive Program of the Economic Modernization Vision, aiming to integrate women's needs into sectoral policies like transport to foster safer and more inclusive services.
The importance of safe, affordable transport extends beyond service provision, as it is crucial for women's participation in the labor market, improving access to jobs and easing workplace commutes. However, women face challenges such as limited transport coverage, long waits, high temperatures, and infrastructure gaps, necessitating tailored public transport services.
The plan's priorities include enhancing connections between residential areas, especially in underserved regions, addressing the needs of women with disabilities, and implementing stronger oversight and training for transport workers.
Nidal Qatamin highlighted the ministry's efforts to ensure public transport is "safe and reliable" for women. Initiatives include dedicated transport for women in agriculture, potential use of school transport in southern governorates, and scheduled intercity services with fixed timetables and routes. The system also features electronic payment, CCTV, vehicle tracking, and feedback channels.
The Land Transport Regulatory Commission, together with the Vocational Training Corporation, is working on developing bus stops that cater to women's needs, focusing on accessibility and safety. Additionally, the Passenger Support Fund and the Bus Rapid Transit project aim to provide regular, fast, and affordable transport options, facilitating access to work, education, and services.
The committee also reviewed the plan's pillars, which encompass governance, institutional integration, safe and inclusive infrastructure, accessible services, sustainable systems, awareness campaigns, and comprehensive planning through actionable measures.