An investigation on Harassment in Public Transportation of Working Women in Dhaka City

Abstract

Abstract: The study investigates the multifaceted issue of harassment faced by
working women in Dhaka City’s public transportation system. The research
aimed to identify and categorize types of harassment, analyze their prevalence
and patterns, assess the impact on women’s lives, evaluate existing support
mechanisms and legal frameworks, and develop policy recommendations
and interventions. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating
both quantitative and qualitative data to provide a comprehensive analysis.
A sample survey of 180 participants and 12 detailed case studies were
undertaken. It was found that most female workers on these routes (78%) are
employed in low-income jobs in both public and private sectors. The findings
revealed that 97.8% of respondents experienced verbal harassment, including
catcalling, sexual comments, insults, and abuse. Non-verbal harassment was
reported by 82.2% of respondents and included behaviors such as staring,
leering, or making lewd gestures. Psychological harassment was reported
by 36% of respondents, with catcalling being the most frequent form. The
study found that 92% of women experienced a high degree of psychological
and emotional impact due to harassment, with 168 out of 180 respondents
discussing the significant negative impact on their quality of life. Based on
the findings, the study recommends enhanced security measures such as
increased presence of security personnel and CCTV surveillance, public
awareness and sensitization campaigns, improved reporting mechanisms,
designated women-only areas in public transport, stricter legal penalties for
offenders, community engagement, and gender-sensitive urban planning.
Keywords: harassment, public transportation, working women, Dhaka

Full text

PSC Journal |1
© Jan-Jun 2024 PSC Journal
Vol. 11 Issue 1 pp. 01-17
Police Sta College Bangladesh
ISSN: 2309-4915
An investigation on Harassment in Public Transportation
of Working Women in Dhaka City
Md. Roni Mridha1
Sadia Sultana Sara2
Abstract: The study investigates the multifaceted issue of harassment faced by
working women in Dhaka City’s public transportation system. The research
aimed to identify and categorize types of harassment, analyze their prevalence
and patterns, assess the impact on women’s lives, evaluate existing support
mechanisms and legal frameworks, and develop policy recommendations
and interventions. A mixed-methods approach was employed, integrating
both quantitative and qualitative data to provide a comprehensive analysis.
A sample survey of 180 participants and 12 detailed case studies were
undertaken. It was found that most female workers on these routes (78%) are
employed in low-income jobs in both public and private sectors. The ndings
revealed that 97.8% of respondents experienced verbal harassment, including
catcalling, sexual comments, insults, and abuse. Non-verbal harassment was
reported by 82.2% of respondents and included behaviors such as staring,
leering, or making lewd gestures. Psychological harassment was reported
by 36% of respondents, with catcalling being the most frequent form. The
study found that 92% of women experienced a high degree of psychological
and emotional impact due to harassment, with 168 out of 180 respondents
discussing the signicant negative impact on their quality of life. Based on
the ndings, the study recommends enhanced security measures such as
increased presence of security personnel and CCTV surveillance, public
awareness and sensitization campaigns, improved reporting mechanisms,
designated women-only areas in public transport, stricter legal penalties for
oenders, community engagement, and gender-sensitive urban planning.
Keywords: harassment, public transportation, working women, Dhaka
Background of the Study
Harassment in public transportation is a pervasive issue aecting many urban
areas worldwide, and Dhaka City is no exception. As the capital of Bangladesh
and one of the most densely populated cities globally, Dhaka’s public transport
system is a lifeline for millions of its residents, including a signicant number
of working women. These women rely on buses, rickshaws, and other forms of
1. Lecturer, Institute of Social welfare and Research (ISWR), University of Dhaka
2. BSS, MSS, Institute of social welfare and Research (ISWR), University of Dhaka
The authors would like to acknowledge the support of faculty members and students of the Institute of Social Welfare and Research (ISWR)
behind this study, in particular the University of Dhaka authorities, ISWR research distribution committee and students involved in this study
from 8th semester practice research group.

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public transport to commute daily, yet their journeys are often marred by various
forms of harassment.
The phenomenon of harassment in public transport includes a wide spectrum
of inappropriate behaviors, ranging from verbal abuse and unwelcome physical
contact to more severe forms of sexual harassment. Sexual harassments is making
challenge to continue work and travel (Kabir and Islam, 2023). This persistent
issue not only infringes upon the rights and dignity of working women but also
aects their mental well-being and sense of security (Dipu and Ferdous, 2019).
The fear of harassment can lead to increased anxiety, reduced productivity, and
even deter women from participating fully in the workforce.
Despite the severity of the problem, there has been limited academic focus on
understanding the specic experiences of working women in Dhaka’s public
transportation system. Existing studies often provide a general overview of
public transport issues without delving into the gender-specic challenges faced
by female commuters. This gap in research necessitates a dedicated investigation
to highlight the unique diculties working women encounter and to propose
eective measures to mitigate harassment in public transport.
This study aims to address this gap by conducting an in-depth investigation into
the nature and extent of harassment experienced by working women in Dhaka
City’s public transportation system. By examining their daily experiences, the
study seeks to shed light on the various forms of harassment these women
face, the impact of such experiences on their personal and professional lives,
and the coping strategies they employ. Additionally, the study will explore the
existing legal and social frameworks addressing harassment and evaluate their
eectiveness in providing a safe commuting environment for women.
Through comprehensive data collection and analysis, this research intends to
oer actionable recommendations for policymakers, transport authorities, and
civil society organizations. By doing so, it aims to contribute to the development
of a safer, more inclusive public transportation system that upholds the rights
and dignity of all commuters, particularly working women, in Dhaka City.
Problem Statement
Harassment in public transportation is a critical issue in Dhaka City,
disproportionately aecting working women who rely on these services for
their daily commute. Despite the growing awareness of gender-based violence,
the specic experiences of working women in Dhaka’s public transport system
remain under-explored and inadequately addressed. These women frequently
face various forms of harassment, including verbal abuse, unwanted physical

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contact, and sexual harassment, which not only violate their personal safety and
dignity but also impede their professional and personal lives.
The lack of comprehensive data and targeted research on this subject has resulted
in insucient policy measures and ineective enforcement mechanisms.
Consequently, working women continue to endure these challenges with limited
recourse, aecting their mental health, productivity, and overall quality of life.
The persistent fear of harassment often forces them to alter their travel routes,
modes of transport, or even their work schedules, leading to economic and social
repercussions.
Rationale of the Study
The issue of harassment in public transportation is a signicant barrier to the
mobility and safety of working women in Dhaka City. Despite the critical
role that public transport plays in enabling economic participation and social
inclusion, the persistent harassment faced by female commuters remains a
largely unaddressed problem.
Dhaka City, as one of the most densely populated urban centers, has a vast and
complex public transportation network. Working women form a substantial
portion of the city’s commuting population, yet they often face signicant risks
of harassment. The lack of safe and reliable transportation options hinders
their mobility, aecting their ability to participate fully in the workforce and
contribute to the economy. Understanding the specic nature and extent of
harassment these women face is essential for developing eective solutions.
Harassment in public transportation is a widespread issue that aects a substantial
number of working women in Dhaka. Incidents of verbal abuse, unwanted
physical contact, and sexual harassment are frequently reported, yet the true
extent of the problem is under-documented. Understanding the prevalence and
severity of these incidents is crucial for developing eective interventions.
The harassment experienced by women in public transport has profound
implications for their mental and physical well-being. It creates an environment
of fear and anxiety, which can lead to decreased productivity at work, increased
absenteeism, and even withdrawal from the workforce. These impacts hinder
women’s economic empowerment and overall quality of life. While gender-
based violence has been the subject of considerable research, specic studies
focusing on harassment in public transportation within Dhaka are scarce. This
gap in the literature means that the unique challenges faced by working women
in this context are not fully understood or addressed in existing policies and
programs.

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Policy and Enforcement Gaps is important area of study justication. Existing
policies and legal frameworks aimed at protecting women from harassment
in public spaces are often inadequately enforced in the context of public
transportation. This study will provide evidence-based insights that can inform
more eective policy-making and enforcement.
Objectives of the Study
The main aim of this study is to investigate the nature, prevalence, and impact
of harassment faced by working women in Dhaka City’s public transportation
system and to provide actionable recommendations for creating a safer and more
inclusive commuting environment.
Specic Objectives
i) To Identify and Categorize Types of Harassment;
• Investigate the various forms of harassment (verbal, physical, sexual, etc.)
experienced by working women in Dhaka’s public transport.
• Classify the incidents based on their frequency and severity.
ii) To Analyze the Prevalence and Patterns of Harassment;
• Determine the prevalence of harassment incidents among working women
commuters.
• Identify patterns such as time of day, specic routes, and types of transport
where harassment is most frequent.
iii) To Assess the Impact of Harassment on Women’s Lives;
• Evaluate the psychological, emotional, and physical eects of harassment
on working women.
• Understand how harassment aects their professional productivity,
attendance, and overall quality of life.
iv) To Evaluate Existing Support Mechanisms and Legal Frameworks; and
• Examine the eectiveness of current legal and institutional measures in
place to protect women from harassment in public transportation.
• Identify gaps in enforcement and support services available to victims.
v) To Develop Policy Recommendations and Interventions:
• Propose actionable recommendations for policymakers, public transport
authorities, and law enforcement agencies to mitigate harassment.

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• Suggest community-based initiatives and awareness programs to promote
a safer and more respectful commuting environment for working women
in Dhaka City.
Methodology of the Study
Main Methods
This study employs a mixed-methods approach, integrating both quantitative
and qualitative data to investigate harassment in public transportation faced by
working women in Dhaka City. This approach enables a comprehensive analysis
by combining both sample survey and case study method. Sample survey provide
with statistical and structural data about this issue and case study enriched in-
depth insight about this issue.
Population
All the working women who faced sexual or physical harassment or experienced
this kind of harassment by watching or listening in public transportation in
Dhaka city has been considered as study population.
Sampling Methods
The sampling method used is purposive or judgmental sampling, selecting
participants who are working women regularly commuting for work, general
passengers, bus drivers, and bus helpers. This method ensures that the sample is
relevant to the study’s objectives.
Sample Size
• Total Sample: 180 participants for the survey.
• Case Studies: 12 detailed case studies involving working women, general
passengers, bus drivers, and bus helpers.
Study Area
The present study has been conducted in Dhaka city. Purposively 4 Route has
been selected for collecting data form respondents. Data collectors use Azimpur
bus stand to collect study data. 4 routes of are Azimpur to Mirpur-10, 11, 12,
Azimpur to Mirpur 1, 2 via college gate area, Azimpur to Farmgate via green
road area. Azimpur to Uttara.

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Data Collection Methods
For survey a structured questionnaire has develop and used with both close
and some open-ended questions to capture demographic information, types and
frequency of harassment, and the impact on respondents’ lives. Face-to-face
interviews conducted at various transit hubs and workplaces.
For case studies in-depth face-to-face interviews techniques has been used
by using a semi-structured interview guide to explore personal experiences,
perceptions, and suggestions for improving safety. Focus Areas of this guidelines
is to collect detailed narratives on incidents of harassment, coping mechanisms,
and contextual factors contributing to harassment.
Data Sources
• Primary Data: Collected through surveys and case study interviews.
• Secondary Data: Reviewed from existing literature, reports, and statistical
data on public transportation and harassment in Dhaka City.
Data Analysis
Quantitative Analysis:
• Software: SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences).
• Techniques: Descriptive statistics to summarize data (e.g., frequency,
percentages) and inferential statistics to examine relationships and
dierences.
• Presentation: Results has been presented in tables and graphs for clear
visualization.
Map 01- Public Transportation Route of the Respondents
Azimpur to Mirpur 10, 11, 12 Azimpur to Mirpur 1 Azimpur to Farmgate Azimpur to Uttara

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Qualitative Analysis:
• Method: Thematic analysis to identify and analyze patterns and themes
within the case study data.
• Presentation: Case quotations has been used to illustrate key ndings and
provide a rich, contextual understanding of the issues.
Data Triangulation:
• Purpose: To enhance the validity and reliability of the ndings by cross-
verifying information from multiple sources (surveys, case studies,
secondary data).
• Approach: Comparing and contrasting data from surveys and case studies
to identify consistent patterns and discrepancies.
Ethical Considerations
• Informed Consent: Participants has been informed about the study’s
objectives, procedures, and their rights, with written consent obtained
before participation.
• Condentiality: All personal information has kept condential, and data
will be anonymized to protect participants’ privacy.
• Sensitivity: Researchers has approached sensitive topics with care and
provide support resources for participants if needed.
This methodology is designed to thoroughly explore the issue of harassment
in public transportation, providing valuable insights through a balanced use of
quantitative and qualitative data. The integration of case studies with survey
data allows for a nuanced understanding of the experiences and challenges faced
by working women in Dhaka City.
Findings and Discussion
The following section presents the ndings and discussion derived from our
investigation into the harassment faced by working women in Dhaka City’s
public transportation system. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, this study
integrates quantitative data from structured surveys with qualitative insights
from in-depth case studies. This dual approach allows for a comprehensive
understanding of the prevalence, forms, and impacts of harassment, as well as
the eectiveness of current measures aimed at addressing this issue.
In the part of sample survey gender dimension was x by study method. All
respondents were female. But in the case study part male female distribution
has done. As public transportation all respondents to Mirpur 10, 11, 12, 1, 2 and

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Uttara use bus for travel. Only to go green road and farmgate respondents use
leguna as public transport. 45 respondents from every (4) routes provide their
valuable input for this study that consist N=180. This study found that most of
the female workers in this route (78%) who use public transport in low level
income job in both public and private oce.
Chart 01- Major Problem faced by respondents in public transport
Table 01- Types of harassment faced by respondents
Types of Harassment Frequency Percentage
Verbal Harassment 176 97.8
Physical Harassment 122 67.8
Sexual Harassment 43 23.9
Non-Verbal Harassment 148 82.2
Psychological Harassment 65 36
Social Harassment 37 20.5
• Multiple responses
97.8% of respondents reported experiencing verbal harassment. This form of
harassment includes catcalling, sexual comments, insults, and abuse. It is the
most common type reported by participants, indicating a pervasive issue within
the public transport environment. 67.8% of respondents reported experiencing
physical harassment. Physical harassment involves unwanted touching, groping,
pinching, or other non-consensual physical contact. While slightly less prevalent
than verbal harassment, it remains a signicant concern, contributing to the

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Table 02- Prevalence and patterns of harassment faced by the respondents
Patterns
Prevalence and Severity
Very
Frequently Occasionally Rarely Never Total
Verbal Harassment
Catcalling 112 45 11 12 180
Sexual Comments 118 50 10 2180
Insults 165 13 2 0 180
Physical Harassment
Unwanted Touching 78 65 532 180
Pinching and Fondling 89 75 8 8 180
Blocking or Cornering 170 82 0 180
Sexual Harassment
Indecent Exposure 32 15 109 24 180
Sexual Gestures 137 23 12 8180
Non-Verbal Harassment
Staring and Leering 22 12 44 102 180
Lewd Gestures 18 13 8141 180
Psychological Harassment
Intimidation 848160 180
Threatening Behavior 24 922 125 180
Social Harassment
Exclusion and Isolation 10 6 7 157 180
Public Shaming 18 25 8129 180
overall discomfort and insecurity felt by women during their commutes. 23.9% of
respondents reported experiencing sexual harassment. This form of harassment
includes indecent exposure, sexual gestures, or any behavior of a sexual nature
that is unwelcome and creates an uncomfortable or threatening environment.
82.2% of respondents reported experiencing non-verbal harassment. Non-verbal
harassment encompasses behaviors such as staring, leering, or making lewd
gestures. 65 respondents consist 36% of respondents reported experiencing
psychological harassment. Psychological harassment involves intimidation,
threats, or other behaviors intended to create fear or distress. 37 responses from
180 respondents reported experiencing social harassment. Social harassment
includes exclusion, isolation, or public shaming, which can contribute to
feelings of alienation and vulnerability. While less prevalent than other forms of
harassment, it underscores the broader societal dynamics that perpetuate gender-
based discrimination and mistreatment in public spaces.

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Catcalling a major type of verbal harassment reported very frequently by 62.2%
of respondents, occasionally by 25%, rarely by 6.1%, and never by 6.7%. Sexual
comments also very frequently reported by 65.6%, occasionally by 27.8%,
rarely by 5.6%, and never by 1.1%. Insults is another type of verbal harassment
very frequently reported by 91.7%, occasionally by 7.2%, rarely by 1.1%, and
never by 0%.
43.3% of respondents reported experiencing unwanted touching very frequently,
indicating that it is a common occurrence for a signicant portion of working
women commuters. Additionally, 36.1% reported experiencing it occasionally,
suggesting that it happens intermittently for many respondents. However, it was
rarely reported by only 2.8% of respondents, indicating that it is not a common
experience for most. A notable 17.8% reported never experiencing unwanted
touching, suggesting that a minority of respondents are fortunate enough to avoid
this form of harassment altogether. A higher percentage of respondents (49.4%)
reported experiencing pinching and fondling very frequently, indicating that it
is even more prevalent than unwanted touching. Additionally, 41.7% reported
experiencing it occasionally, suggesting a pervasive and recurring issue for many
working women commuters. However, it was reported rarely by only 4.4% of
respondents, indicating that it is less common for this form of harassment to
occur infrequently. Similarly, 4.4% reported never experiencing pinching and
fondling, suggesting a small minority who are fortunate enough to avoid this
form of harassment entirely.
Blocking or Cornering is a form of harassment was reported very frequently
by an overwhelming majority of respondents (94.4%), indicating that it is
pervasive and occurs frequently for nearly all working women commuters.
Additionally, 4.4% reported experiencing it occasionally, suggesting that it is
a recurring issue for a small minority of respondents. It was rarely reported by
only 1.1% of respondents, indicating that it is extremely uncommon for this
form of harassment to occur infrequently. Notably, none of the respondents
reported never experiencing blocking or cornering, suggesting that it is nearly
unavoidable for working women commuters in Dhaka City.
From sexual harassment category Indecent exposure is alarming and it very
frequently reported by 17.8%, occasionally by 8.3%, rarely by 60.6%, and
never by 13.3%. Sexual Gestures is another type very frequently reported by
76.1%, occasionally by 12.8%, rarely by 6.7%, and never by 4.4%. Sexual
harassment is increasing on bus and its worst victim are women (World Bank,
2014). Harassment issue in old Dhaka is very common and need immediate
action (Haq, 2019).
Only 5.6% of respondents reported experiencing exclusion and isolation very
frequently, indicating that it is not a common occurrence for most working

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women commuters. Additionally, 3.3% reported experiencing it occasionally,
suggesting that it happens intermittently for a small minority of respondents. It
was reported rarely by 3.9% of respondents, indicating that it is uncommon for
this form of harassment to occur infrequently. Notably, a signicant majority
(87.2%) reported never experiencing exclusion and isolation, suggesting that
it is a relatively rare occurrence for working women commuters in Dhaka City.
A higher percentage of respondents (10%) reported experiencing public
shaming very frequently, indicating that it is more prevalent than exclusion and
isolation. Additionally, 13.9% reported experiencing it occasionally, suggesting
that it is a recurring issue for a larger portion of respondents. It was reported
rarely by 4.4% of respondents, indicating that it is less common for this form of
harassment to occur infrequently. However, a notable majority (71.7%) reported
never experiencing public shaming, suggesting that it is relatively uncommon
for working women commuters to face this form of harassment in Dhaka City’s
public transportation system.
Table 03- Impact of harassment faced by the respondents
Impact Type Level of Impact
High Moderate Low N=180
Psychological and Emotional 165 10 5 180
Physical Health 86 84 10 180
Social and cultural 9 146 25 180
Income Generation (Negative) 25 142 13 180
Professional and productivity 176 3 1 180
Behavioral Change 170 10 0 180
Overall Quality of Life 168 8 4180
The impact analysis of this study examines how various forms of harassment in
public transportation aect the lives of working women in Dhaka City. Through
a combination of survey data and detailed case studies, we can understand the
profound and multifaceted impacts of harassment on women’s personal and
professional lives.
Psychological and Emotional Impact
Harassment, particularly frequent and severe forms like verbal and physical
harassment, can lead to signicant psychological and emotional distress. Women
often experience anxiety, fear, and a sense of helplessness while commuting.

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This study found 165 women consist 92% having high degree of psychological
and emotional impact due to harassment in public transportation and in moderate
level this percentage is 5.55% an in low level 2.77%.
“Every day on the bus, I brace myself for the catcalls and groping. It’s like a
nightmare that never ends. I feel anxious all the time and have trouble focusing
at work because I dread the commute home.” - Case Runa (34)
Impact on Physical Health
Physical harassment, such as unwanted touching and blocking or cornering,
not only causes immediate physical discomfort but can also lead to longer-
term physical health issues due to the stress and anxiety associated with these
experiences. 86 responses come about high level and 84 in moderate level of
negative physical impact due to harassment in public transport that consist 94%.
“I was pinned against the wall of the bus by a group of men. They kept brushing
against me deliberately. I felt so violated and scared. The constant stress has
started giving me severe headaches and stomach issues.” - Respondent Rohima
(38)
Socio-cultural, income generation and Professional Impact
81% female working women feel that harassment in public transport have
moderate level negative impact on their socio-cultural life. 79% respondent said
harassment impacted on their income generation thinking as they are working
women. 176 respondents opine that harassment in public transport have high
level professional negative impact that consist 98%. Harassment aects women’s
professional lives by causing increased absenteeism, decreased productivity,
and in some cases, forcing women to change jobs or working hours to avoid
harassment.
“I had to switch to a job closer to home because the daily harassment on the bus
was unbearable. It was either that or quit working altogether. I couldn’t focus
on my tasks because my mind was always on the harassment, I faced every
morning and evening.” - Respondent Sadia (19)
Cognitive Behavioral Impact
The persistent fear and anxiety caused by harassment lead to changes in women’s
behavior and social interactions and this percentage in high level is 94%. Many
women alter their routes, avoid certain times of travel, or even stop using public
transportation altogether.

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“I now take longer routes and spend more money on safer modes of transport,
but even then, I’m always on edge. I avoid going out unless absolutely necessary,
and my social life has taken a hit because I fear being harassed.” - Respondent
Ruma (32)
Impact on Overall Quality of Life
168 respondents among 180 talked about the impact of harassment on the quality
of life in high level. The cumulative eect of harassment severely impacts the
overall quality of life for working women. The fear and stress associated with
daily commutes lead to a diminished sense of well-being and happiness.
“I used to be a cheerful and outgoing person, but now I’m constantly worried
and stressed. My family notices the change, and it’s aecting my relationships
in family and friends. The daily harassment has taken a toll on my mental health
and overall happiness. My friends already telling my mind goes to short temper
level.” - Respondent Farida (37)
Recommendations and Policy Guidelines
Based on the ndings of this study on harassment in public transportation faced
by working women in Dhaka City, the following recommendations and policy
guidelines are proposed:
i) Recommendations
a) Enhanced Security Measures:
Increase the Presence of Security Personnel: Deploy trained security personnel
on buses and at major bus stops to deter harassment and respond promptly to
incidents.
CCTV Surveillance: Install CCTV cameras in buses and at bus stops to
monitor and record incidents of harassment, which can serve as evidence in
investigations.
b) Awareness and Sensitization Campaigns:
Public Awareness Campaigns: Launch campaigns to educate the public about
the dierent forms of harassment and the importance of respecting women’s
rights in public spaces.
Training Programs for Drivers and Sta: Conduct mandatory training
sessions for bus drivers and helpers on how to handle and prevent harassment
incidents.

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c) Improved Reporting Mechanisms:
Hotline and Mobile Apps: Develop dedicated helplines and mobile apps for
reporting harassment, ensuring they are user-friendly and accessible.
Anonymous Reporting: Allow anonymous reporting to protect the identity of
victims and encourage more women to come forward.
d) Designated Women-Only Areas:
Women-Only Buses or Sections: Introduce women-only buses or designated
sections in buses to provide a safer travel environment.
Priority Seating for Women: ensure reserve seats benet as rights for women near
the front of the bus where they are more visible to the driver and security personnel.
e) Legal and Policy Reforms:
Stricter Penalties: Enforce stricter penalties for oenders to act as a deterrent
against harassment.
Implementation of Existing Laws: Ensure eective implementation and
enforcement of existing laws related to harassment in public transport.
f) Community Engagement:
Involve Local Communities: Engage local communities in initiatives to create
a safer public transport environment through community policing and awareness
programs.
Support Groups: Establish support groups (like-social workers) and counseling
services for victims of harassment to provide psychological support and
guidance.
ii) Policy Guidelines
a) Comprehensive Anti-Harassment Policies
Develop and implement comprehensive anti-harassment policies for public
transportation systems, clearly outlining unacceptable behaviors and
consequences for violations.
b) Collaboration with Stakeholders
Multi-Agency coordination: Foster collaboration between government
agencies, transportation authorities, law enforcement, and non-governmental
organizations to address harassment eectively.

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Public-Private partnerships: Encourage public-private partnerships to fund
and support initiatives aimed at improving the safety of women in public
transport.
c) Monitoring and Evaluation:
Regular audits and surveys: Conduct regular audits and surveys to monitor the
eectiveness of implemented measures and gather feedback from commuters.
Impact assessment: Periodically assess the impact of policies and initiatives to
ensure they are achieving desired outcomes and make necessary adjustments.
d) Inclusive Planning and Design:
Gender-Sensitive urban planning: Incorporate gender-sensitive approaches
in urban planning and the design of public transportation systems to enhance
safety and accessibility for women.
Infrastructure improvements: Upgrade bus stops and waiting areas with better
lighting, clear signage, and safe waiting spaces for women.
e) Education and Empowerment:
School and college programs: Integrate educational programs on gender equality
and respect into school and college curriculums to foster a culture of respect
from a young age.
Empowerment workshops: Organize workshops to empower women with self-
defense skills and knowledge on how to handle and report harassment incidents.
By implementing these recommendations and policy guidelines, authorities can
create a safer and more respectful public transportation environment for working
women in Dhaka City. These measures will not only reduce the prevalence of
harassment but also enhance the overall quality of life and well-being of women
commuters.
Conclusion
This study has highlighted the signicant prevalence and multifaceted nature of
harassment experienced by working women in Dhaka City’s public transportation
system. The ndings reveal that verbal harassment is the most common,
aecting 97.8% of respondents, followed by non-verbal harassment at 82.2%,
and physical harassment at 67.8%. Sexual harassment, although less frequent,
still aects nearly a quarter (23.9%) of the respondents, and psychological
harassment impacts 36%. Social harassment, while less prevalent, is still a
concern with public shaming reported by 10% of respondents very frequently.

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The impact of these harassment experiences is profound, leading to psychological
distress, physical health issues, decreased work productivity, and altered
commuting behaviors. The study underscores the urgent need for comprehensive
measures to address harassment in public transportation, including enhanced
security, awareness campaigns, improved reporting mechanisms, designated
women-only areas, legal reforms, community engagement, inclusive urban
planning, and education and empowerment initiatives. By implementing these
recommendations, it is possible to create a safer and more respectful environment
for working women in Dhaka City, thereby improving their quality of life and
enabling them to commute with dignity and condence.

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