In a strong push to make travel safer for women, the Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh has rolled out a new initiative focused on safer rides for women through its ‘Safe Mobility Program’. The idea is simple but impactful: women themselves are being trained and supported to drive e-rickshaws, so that girls and working women can travel without fear and with dignity.
The program is already showing real results on the ground. So far, 119 women across five districts have received e-rickshaws and started earning as independent drivers. Along with this, 629 women have been trained to operate these vehicles, and 244 have successfully obtained their driving licenses. Many of these women are now earning over ₹3 lakh annually, becoming a strong financial support for their families.
What makes this initiative stand out is its direct link to safety. In many rural areas, women often struggle to find secure transport. With women drivers now available, families feel more confident sending their daughters to schools or workplaces. This small change is making a big difference in everyday life, especially in villages where safe travel options are limited.
At present, around 1,000 e-rickshaws are being distributed to women from self-help groups in the first phase. The service has already started in cities like Ayodhya, Gorakhpur, Varanasi, Kaushambi, and Jhansi. It will soon expand to Lucknow, Prayagraj, Mirzapur, Bhadohi, Sonbhadra, Deoria, Lakhimpur Kheri, and Sitapur.
This initiative is being carried out under the Uttar Pradesh State Rural Livelihood Mission with technical support from Development Alternatives. Officials say the program is not just about transport, it is also about creating jobs, boosting confidence among women, and building a safer environment in society.
The bigger impact goes beyond just daily travel. Easier and safer mobility means girls can continue their education without worry, working women can commute without stress, and rural areas can see new job opportunities grow. Women from self-help groups are now becoming role models of independence in their communities.
By combining safety, employment, and dignity, this “Safe Mobility Program” is slowly changing how women move and live in the state. With more women stepping into the role of drivers, Uttar Pradesh is trying to set an example of how simple ideas can create safer spaces for women while also improving their economic condition.
