Breaking The Gender Bias: Pink Ambulance Service In Delhi Started By Women, For Women

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Delhi-based non-government organisation (NGO) Shaheed Bhagat Singh Sewa Dal, that makes emergency services accessible, got a request for an ambulance service for a little girl who was extremely unwell. The family of the young girl asked if there were women drivers instead to drive the patient to the hospital.

It is then Manjeet Kaur Shunty, President, Women Cell, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Sewa Dal realised that young girls and women don't always feel comfortable around male drivers. This led to the launch of pink ambulances, driven by women and managed by women, on International Women's Day (March 8) this year.

"A woman tends to open up emotionally more to a fellow female being. And in an ambulance, during a crisis, when a patient needs utmost care, comfort and consolation, what better than another woman providing emotional support", says Dr Jyot Jeet Shunty, Chairperson, Disaster Management Cell, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Sewa Dal.

As part of the initiative, four Pink Ambulances have been launched with four women drivers and attendants. The 24x7 service is currently available across Delhi-NCR for free.

This initiative is not only empowering women but also breaking stereotypes of a male dominated profession. Every day is a women's day for Shaheed Bhagat Singh Sewa Dal. This unique initiative with pink ambulances driven by lady drivers and an all-women's staff makes all the difference to women patients during their most difficult times of medical distress.