Mapping Mobility Challenges : Sanjaynagar

The Mapping Activity aimed to understand the existing barriers faced by the community in accessing urban mobility and transportation. Our goal was to identify the essential needs, opportunities, and challenges that locals—particularly women and girls—encounter when using public transport. This data would help us develop policies, plans, and solutions that promote sustainable, inclusive, and safe transportation options.

Who Joined Us?

The event saw the participation of 10 community girls and 2 women from Sanjay Nagar. These individuals, who are directly affected by the lack of accessible and affordable transport, provided invaluable insights into the struggles faced by residents, especially women and low-income groups, in navigating the city’s transport system.

The mapping activity was centered around understanding the mobility needs and barriers faced by local residents. We started by engaging the community in a discussion, where participants shared their daily transportation routines and the challenges they face when commuting.

We focused on:

  1. Modes of Transport: Identifying the preferred modes of transport and the distances traveled daily.
  2. Safety Concerns: Discussing the safety challenges, especially for women, in accessing transportation.
  3. Cost Issues: Understanding how high transportation costs impact families, particularly non-working women.
  4. Accessibility: Discussing the lack of safe and inclusive transport options for marginalized communities.

Daily Commutes: Participants shared the regular routes they take and the challenges faced during their commutes, such as long distances, lack of proper transportation, and unsafe routes.

Safety Issues: Women discussed their concerns about traveling in poorly lit areas and how it affects their sense of security during travel.

Transportation Costs: The rising cost of transportation was a key concern, particularly for non-working women who depend on affordable transport options.

Lack of Proper Infrastructure: The absence of public toilets, proper footpaths, and a lack of dustbins also contributed to the difficulties faced by commuters.

Why It Matters

The Mapping Activity helped identify the barriers to safe, inclusive, and affordable mobility for women in Sanjay Nagar. By collecting this data, we aimed to advocate for better transportation solutions that are not only more affordable but also safer and more accessible for everyone, particularly marginalized groups. Understanding these challenges is a vital first step in developing transportation systems that serve the needs of the community.

At The Climate Agenda, we believe that creating sustainable urban mobility systems requires active participation from local communities. The Mapping Activity was an important step towards understanding the transportation challenges faced by women in Sanjay Nagar. Moving forward, we will continue to work with local leaders and authorities to ensure that their voices are heard and their needs are addressed.