In recent years, the issue of harassment of female commuters in urban public transport systems has gained heightened attention from scholars, policymakers, and the general public alike. One significant study shedding light on this pressing matter is conducted by Noor and Iamtrakul, focusing specifically on Chattogram city in Bangladesh. Their research explores the shared and divided perceptions of female commuters regarding harassment experienced within the public transport system. This study presents a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding this social issue, highlighting the various factors that influence commuters’ experiences and perceptions.
Chattogram, the second-largest city in Bangladesh, serves as a critical case study due to its heavily utilized public transport system. The city is home to millions of residents who rely on buses, microbuses, and other forms of public transport daily. Unfortunately, the prevalence of harassment in these settings not only affects the physical safety of women but also their psychological well-being and overall quality of life. The research dives deep into how women’s mobility rights are often compromised by such harrowing experiences, which in turn hinders their ability to participate fully in society.
The researchers employed a mixed-methods approach to gather comprehensive data on the perceptions of female commuters. Through qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys, the study effectively captures the varying degrees of harassment experiences shared by women. The findings reveal that numerous factors shape these experiences, such as cultural norms, the physical environment of public transportation, and socioeconomic variables. These findings contribute significantly to the understanding of gender dynamics within urban contexts.
One of the study’s most striking revelations is the difference in perceptions among women from various socioeconomic backgrounds. While some women reported feeling unsafe and harassed, others expressed a certain level of resignation, indicating that harassment had become a normalized aspect of their daily commutes. This disparity highlights the need for more tailored interventions aimed at different demographic groups. It also raises questions about the societal structures that enable such harassment to flourish.
The research also underscores the role of bystanders in public transport settings. The presence or absence of supportive bystanders can significantly alter the experiences of female commuters. The study found that when bystanders intervened during harassment incidents, it provided a sense of relief and support for the affected women. Conversely, in situations where bystanders were passive, the feeling of isolation and vulnerability increased. This finding emphasizes the importance of community awareness and bystander intervention programs in combating harassment in public spaces.
Moreover, the study identifies the structural factors contributing to the prevalence of harassment in Chattogram’s public transport system. The lack of adequate lighting, CCTV cameras, and security personnel creates an environment where harassment can occur with minimal consequence. The authors argue that urban planning must prioritize the safety of all commuters, particularly women, to foster an inclusive city where everyone feels secure in their mobility.
The authors also discuss existing policies aimed at addressing harassment in public transport and their effectiveness. They highlight the need for comprehensive anti-harassment policies that incorporate female commuters’ voices in the decision-making process. The research calls for collaborative efforts between government agencies, transport authorities, and civil society to create a safer commuting environment for women.
Furthermore, digital platforms and mobile applications could play a pivotal role in improving safety for female commuters. The researchers advocate for the development of technology-driven solutions that allow women to report incidents of harassment anonymously. Such initiatives could empower victims to speak out and help transport authorities to take preventive measures based on the reported data.
The findings of this study have broader implications beyond Chattogram, resonating with global conversations about women’s safety in public transport systems. Cities worldwide face similar challenges, and the insights from this research could inform policy changes and community engagement strategies in various contexts. The urgency of addressing harassment in public transport cannot be overstated; it is a matter of human rights, gender equality, and social justice.
In conclusion, Noor and Iamtrakul’s research is an enlightening contribution to the discourse on women’s safety in public transport. It not only highlights the pressing issue of harassment but also emphasizes the need for a multifaceted approach to effectively address these concerns. Creating a safer commuting environment for women requires coordinated efforts that involve society as a whole. This study serves as a call to action for stakeholders at all levels to prioritize women’s safety and ensure that daily commutes are free from harassment.
As urban centers continue to grow, the need for safe and inclusive public transport systems becomes paramount. Understanding and addressing the nuances of female commuters’ experiences is critical to shaping policies and interventions that genuinely safeguard women’s rights in public spaces. The road ahead is long, but studies like this provide the necessary framework to initiate meaningful change.
Subject of Research: Female commuters’ harassment in public transport systems
Article Title: Shared or divided perceptions of female commuters’ harassment in Chattogram city’s public transport system.
Article References:
Noor, S., Iamtrakul, P. Shared or divided perceptions of female commuters’ harassment in Chattogram city’s public transport system.
Discov glob soc 4, 10 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1007/s44282-026-00341-6
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s44282-026-00341-6
Keywords: Female commuters, harassment, public transport, Chattogram, gender dynamics, urban planning, community awareness, policy change.
