In an effort to reduce sexual harassment in its public transportation, Mexico City has created “women-only” bus service. Many women are fed up with the lack of personal security, and after years of complaining to the authorities they have been given an alternative.   

Verbal abuse is the most common problem, and men often use crowded trains and buses as cover to grope unsuspecting women. The Mexico City police department also deals with reports of women being followed by men who confronted them on the bus or subway. 

This is the latest effort by Mexico City to help women and children feel more secure on the public transit system. The subway, which has over 1.4 billion riders every year, already dedicates the first three cars of every train to women and children at rush hour.  India, Brazil and Japan also offer women-only public transit options. By April, Mexico City plans on having “women-only” buses on 17 major routes.