VISAKHAPATNAM: In a city where the hustle and bustle of life is often accompanied by stories of resilience and determination, a group of women in Visakhapatnam has quietly joined the ranks of Rapido, the popular bike taxi service. While they navigate the streets to make ends meet, their stories highlight the challenges they brave in unconventional professions.
Among them is a student who has been working with Rapido for the last two months. Balancing her studies and the need to contribute to the household budget, she typifies the financial strain that propels them into unconventional employment. Another member of the group is a married woman, whose husband is down with alcohol-related issues. She took up this job as she had to run the family and to take care of her children.
In conversation with Deccan Chronicle, these women shared their experiences of transitioning from food delivery to bike taxi services due to financial pressures.
Many spoke about encountering customers who take advantage of them and sometimes behave inappropriately. They emphasized that due to societal norms and the secrecy surrounding their jobs, they find it challenging to report such incidents to the police.
Speaking out about their predicament, one of them said "We request people who ride with us to give us the respect we deserve and treat us like any other service provider. While many want to join the firm, they fear the potential problems. We can't file a police complaint as our families are unaware of the livelihood option we have chosen."
They urged the company management to consider their precarious situation and allocate them female passengers whenever possible. They also pointed out at the growing number of females facing discomfort when seated on a bike with an unknown male rider. They said that women riders can provide comfort and security to female passengers.
As these women continue to navigate their responsibilities, they hope for a shift in societal attitude and greater understanding of the challenges they encounter on an everyday basis.
