Gangtok, long known for its simplicity and safety, has always stood apart from other Indian cities. “People here mind their own business — women step into taxis and go about their day without fear,” says a local resident. Yet, the Sikkim government believes that ensuring women’s safety and comfort must remain a top priority.
Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang (PS Golay) has announced the launch of the ‘Pink City Runner’, a women-only public transport service featuring female drivers and conductors. The initiative, offering 50% discounted fares, aims to make public transport safer, more inclusive, and affordable for women commuters in and around Gangtok.
The concept builds on the success of the existing City Runner service that connects Gangtok to Ranipool and other routes. Many women commuters have already praised its comfort and reliability. A government employee shared, “My husband used to drop me to the office daily, but now I take the City Runner every morning and evening. Sometimes it’s packed, but it’s affordable and safe. I hope the government adds more buses.”
A student from Sikkim Govt College Shared, the service has been transformative. “I travel from Ranipool to Tadong College daily and love the experience. A recharge card system would make it even easier for student like us. The announcement of Pink City Runner by Chief Minister is a great initiative — it shows how much the government values women’s safety,” she said.
Unsurprisingly, the scheme has significantly improved women’s access to safe transport compared to taxis, allowing many to travel comfortably even during heavy traffic hours — something that was once challenging due to Gangtok’s frequent jams. The City Runner has not only made travel easier but also boosted confidence among women to commute independently.
A 2024 survey had revealed that Sikkim was the only state without a women-only bus service, a gap that the Pink City Runner now proudly fills. The government’s decision marks a historic step toward recognizing that women’s travel patterns differ from men’s — and that their safety and comfort deserve dedicated attention.
In Sikkim, public transport should be seen as more than just a means of getting from one place to another; it is a gateway for citizens, enabling social inclusion, economic participation, and community well-being.
As Gangtok continues to modernize its transport infrastructure, this initiative stands as a model of gender-sensitive mobility in the Himalayas — proving that progress begins when every woman can travel freely, safely, and proudly.
(Article by Roshni Sharma Bhattarai, Editorial The Sikkim Today)
