No Boys Allowed! Sindh Government Says ‘Hands Off’ the Pink Scooters
In a surprising turn of events, the Sindh Provincial Government has issued a strict warning that’s sure to raise some eyebrows, and possibly a few pink helmets. From now on, as part of its women’s mobility initiative, any male or male family member found riding the pink electric scooters intended for women will face immediate impoundment and penalties.
The Pink Scooter Project
The “Pink Scooter” Project, run under the Sindh Mass Transit Authority (SMTA), was launched to empower female students and working women through independent, eco-friendly mobility across major cities in Sindh.
Around 200 of these electric scooters have already hit the streets in Karachi and nearby districts as part of the first phase, with another 725 set to follow.
The catch? Only women can ride them. Yes, you read that right, gentlemen; even a promise to “just take it out for a spin” can lead to your pink scooter being impounded.
Sindh officials claim that the misuse of the scheme, i.e., in the hands of men, is undermining its core objective to encourage more women to take to the roads. The SMTA’s Managing Director, Kanwal Nizam Bhutto, emphasized that if male relatives start using the pink scooters, “the very purpose of women’s empowerment will be defeated.”
A Crash Course on the Rules
- Only the registered female beneficiary may operate the scooter.
- Two‑wheeler driving licence (or learner permit) is mandatory.
- Official registration number plate is a must.
- Helmet usage is compulsory.
- Unauthorized transfer or sale of the scooter invalidates its ownership.
The Sindh Government is firm in its enforcement and dedicated to empowering women by expanding economic participation, independence, and self-reliance.
The women who received the scooters were required to complete official training in vehicle handling, traffic rules, control, and safety before they could operate their scooters, underscoring the government’s seriousness about the “Pink Scooter Project.”
Furthermore, enforcing safety rules like licensing, registration, and helmet use helps embed a culture of responsible riding, which is essential for any two‑wheeler programme.
The Final Word
The crackdown underscores that this initiative is not merely about handing out free scooters; it’s about women’s empowerment, road safety, and institutional integrity.
If you’re a beneficiary (or planning to apply in the next phase), ensure you meet eligibility, hold a valid licence, follow the rules, and keep the scooter riding strictly female‑only.
Men riding the pink scooters may have to think twice: rules are now clear, and enforcement is real.