Bhubaneswar, Ap 25: Bhubaneswar will soon witness a unique and inclusive road safety initiative as around 50 transgender volunteers take to the city’s major intersections for a 23-day campaign marking ‘Zero Accident Day’ (ZAD).
Conceptualized by IIT Madras, the campaign aims to create a lasting cultural shift around road safety—not only by promoting adherence to traffic rules but also by fostering values of visibility, inclusion, and dignity for all members of society.
“Transgenders have high visibility in urban settings. Instead of being ignored or marginalised, they’ll now be change-makers,” said an official from the Transport Department.
Backed by the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC), Social Security Department, and Excise Department, the initiative has drawn widespread support. Gig workers, such as food delivery personnel, will also participate by displaying campaign messages on their delivery bags, helping extend the message across the city.
Driven by women and focused on inclusivity, this campaign goes beyond just road safety. It represents a significant step toward building a more empathetic, respectful, and inclusive society.