Inching a step closer to the launch of Safe City programme and ‘Sabala’, an initiative for security of women in the city, the Corporation is planning to convene a meet to evaluate the steps taken so far in this regard.

Accordingly, the meeting which will be held on August 30 will discuss in     detail the plans designed to ensure maximum safety to women while commuting   using public transport and going to school thereby preventing sexual harassment and violence against them.

The proposed plan was launched as per the study conducted by women's  organisations, which identified major spots in the city that are unsafe for women.

The Corporation has launched the Safe City project by joining hands with Sakhi, Anweshi and Samanwaya. “The representatives of the various women empowerment organisations will attend the evaluation meet. A collective action is essential for implementing programmes aiming to end violence against women. On the basis of the recommendations, we will work on an action plan that will make Kochi a safe city for women,” Deputy Mayor B Bhadra said.

Earlier, the Corporation has also announced a few ambitious projects under the special proposal titled ‘Sabala’. The various projects include free education for children from homes with only women,  a modern lodge exclusively for women where the entire staff will be women and an women-only buses .

“Besides, we are planning to carry out the other key proposal mooted in the budget for the safety of women. These include special counselling session for students along with awareness campaigns in colleges and schools on the evils of mobile phones and internet, “ Bhadra added.

The Corporation is also planning to launch more awareness campaigns for the safety of women. “Our plan is to prevent violence against the women by raising awareness among the public,” the deputy mayor added.