“My name is Sana, and this is my friend Sravani. We’re both proudly serving as Traffic Assistants at Alugaddabavi in Mettuguda. Growing up as transwomen, life was tough for us.
I come from Bhadrachalam, and Sravani is from Mahabubabad. From a young age, I knew I was a girl, but expressing that openly came with challenges. Later, finding work became nearly impossible. No one was willing to give us jobs, and we were forced to beg on the streets to survive.
The world didn’t see us as individuals capable of contributing. People ignored us, mocked us, or simply dismissed our existence.
Things started to change when the Telangana government launched an initiative to hire transwomen as Traffic Assistants. It was the first of its kind in India, led by Hyderabad City Police. Out of 44 transgender candidates who cleared the physical tests, 39 of us were selected and underwent 20 days of rigorous training. We learned traffic management, public interaction, and handling emergencies.
Our duties include managing traffic flow at busy intersections, ensuring road safety, and assisting commuters. We guide vehicles during peak hours, help prevent congestion, and educate people about traffic rules. We also monitor helmet usage for two-wheeler riders, enforce seatbelt regulations, and advise pedestrians to use zebra crossings. Sometimes, we assist during accidents, ensuring smooth coordination with emergency services.
Sravani and I are grateful to the Telangana Government, the Hyderabad Traffic Police, and everyone who made this initiative possible. Their support has given us a chance to prove ourselves. We hope similar programs are launched across India so more people from our community can live with dignity. People who once ignored us now recognize the work we do. This job isn’t just about controlling traffic—it’s about breaking barriers and showing society what transwomen are capable of achieving.
Jai Hind!”