For the first time ever, the traffic signals in Mumbai are upholding a step taken towards gender inclusivity by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) authorities. The aim of this initiative is to provide ample representation of women and to promote equality amidst the citizens. This has also put Mumbai in a deferential position of being the sole city in India to do so.

Green Light for Inclusivity

The BMC has swapped the male stick figures on traffic lights and signboards, with triangular frock-wearing female figurines on 240 pedestrian signals, along the Dadar stretch in Mumbai. A project undertaken by the Maharashtra Tourism Minister, the reformations also include setting up of vertical gardens behind bus stops, better footpaths and guiding tiles for the visually challenged.

Upon being lauded by the UN Women body, Maharashtra's Tourism Minister also tweeted saying, "Delighted to see the efforts of the BMC for 'the correct signal' being recognised by UN Women. Some may say this is only 'signalling', but equality cannot be measured, it has to begin in the way we think. Each such step, matters!"

The assistant commissioner with Mumbai's municipal corporation also stated, "The signage reflects the character of the city... that it believes in gender equality and promotes women's empowerment. This is just the start."

Knock Knock

This initiative is being narrated as a "symbolically valuable move" and this change further showcases that women are slowly but steadily gaining more acceptance in our society which is known to be layered with patriarchy at many instances. Although the change may appear as a 'small' but nevertheless, it is surely an important one. India's financial capital, has truly taken up a cause worth a resounding applause!