NTC Develops App to Combat Harassment of Women in Buses

Dr. Dileepa Vitharana, Chairman of the NTC, revealed this initiative during a recent press conference, stating that it is part of a broader effort to ensure the safety and well-being of women in buses.

The proposed app will allow passengers to lodge complaints directly, streamlining the process and providing a crucial tool for addressing harassment. Dr. Vitharana emphasized that discussions are ongoing with the police to integrate an emergency alarm system within the app, which would alert authorities in real-time if a passenger feels threatened.

Another significant step in enhancing security involves the NTC's plans to make it mandatory for private buses to install CCTV cameras. These cameras will provide surveillance to monitor the safety of passengers and act as a deterrent to potential perpetrators of harassment.

At the same press conference, Acting DIG Renuka Jayasundara, who heads the Children and Women Abuse Investigation Range, highlighted troubling statistics. Last year alone, 2,785 complaints of sexual harassment were received, with 289 of those incidents occurring in public transport and public spaces. However, the highest number of harassment complaints were reported from private homes, totaling 1,852 cases. Other notable figures included 348 cases of harassment via the internet, 176 incidents on public roads, and 70 on office premises.

In 2023, the total number of sexual harassment cases decreased to 2,252, with 262 of these cases involving public transport.

The NTC's new measures reflect a growing commitment to address the issue of harassment and ensure that women feel safe and secure while using public transport.