39 Transgender Traffic Volunteers Take Charge in Hyderabad

It is not a light observation, it is instead a moment where “different” seemed to dissolve into the ordinary.

“This is a great sensitisation programme for society who thinks we are only meant for sex work and begging at traffic signals,” said Dr Prachi Rathod, India’s first transgender medical officer at a government hospital.

On Tuesday, 39 transgender individuals were officially deployed as traffic assistants across Hyderabad. This is a pilot project, introduced as part of the Congress government’s move towards inclusivity.

“It feels surreal,” said Nisha, one of the recruits, stationed in the Secunderabad zone. “Just 15 days ago, I applied, and here I am, wearing a uniform, holding authority. Today was my first day, and it felt wonderful. Our training officer treated us with so much care, it was like we were being looked after as family.”

This recruitment drive was done with the help of community members and organisations. Rachana Mudraboyina, founding member of the Telangana Hijra Intersex Transgender Samiti, who was part of the process, stated that while 50 vacancies were advertised, 44 candidates made it to training, and finally, 39 took up the job.

The selection process included physical tests like running and long jumps. For the recruits, the job brings dignity and stability. Paid `30,000 per month on a six-month contract, they now find themselves in a position of respect.

Their responsibilities are similar to those of any traffic officer like managing vehicular flow, ensuring road safety, and addressing traffic issues. “There’s no distinction in the way they’ve been trained or treated,” said Hyderabad traffic DCP Rahul Hegde. “They’re even paired with senior officers at junctions to ensure they settle in smoothly.”

Dr Prachi Rathod, who is currently working at Osmania General Hospital, believes it’s a step towards reshaping societal attitudes. “People used to see my community begging at signals. Now, they’ll see us guiding traffic. That changes everything.”

The city’s response has been largely positive, with social media brimming with applause. “This is how change begins,” said Aman Kumar, a citizen. “It’s a meaningful step towards inclusion.”

Amidst the celebrations, there’s also a call for permanence. Advocates want the state to extend the program and offer permanent roles, and expand it to Telangana.

Advocates also raise concern about the drive not encompassing the entire LGBTQIA+ spectrum. Like Anil (also known as Savitri), a long-time activist and NGO leader, acknowledged the impact, but said, “There’s still a long way to go. The government required transgender ID cards for recruitment, which isn’t always feasible. Gender identity is personal and doesn’t need validation through surgery or documentation.”

For now, though, the volunteers are relishing their new roles. Nisha shared her excitement about the future. “They told us if we perform well, we might get to stay on beyond six months. I’m ready to prove myself.”

“Yesterday, it was doctors; today, it’s traffic assistants. Tomorrow, it could be civil servants,” said Anil, concluding with a note of hope.