How Hyderabad is strengthening women’s safety through SHE Teams, tech

Hyderabad has strengthened women’s safety through initiatives like SHE Teams, Bharosa Centres, and safety apps. Combining policing, technology, and awareness, authorities aim to prevent harassment, support victims, and make reporting easier through helplines and digital platforms.

Hyderabad: With rapid urban growth and increasing mobility, ensuring women’s safety has become a key focus in Hyderabad. The city has introduced multiple initiatives that focus on prevention, support, and awareness.

1. SHE Teams

Launched on October 24, 2014, under the concept of friendly policing, SHE Teams work proactively to prevent harassment in public spaces. These undercover teams monitor hotspots, respond to complaints, and act as a deterrent against offences like stalking and street harassment. Around 331 teams currently operate across Telangana, supported by tools like QR-code-based complaint systems for easy reporting.

2. Bharosa Centres

Bharosa Centres serve as one-stop support systems for women and children affected by violence. They provide legal aid, counselling, medical assistance, and rehabilitation services. Cases related to domestic violence, sexual assault, trafficking, and abuse are handled with specialised care to ensure comprehensive support.

3. Women Safety Wing (WSW)

The Women’s Safety Wing acts as the nodal agency overseeing all major safety initiatives. It coordinates SHE Teams and Bharosa Centres while managing specialised units such as the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit, NRI Cell, Missing Persons Monitoring Cell, and SHE Bharosa Cyber Lab. The wing also conducts awareness programmes across schools, colleges, and workplaces to promote safety and reporting.

4. Technology and Safety Apps

To strengthen accessibility, several digital tools have been introduced, including the T-Safe app for ride monitoring, Bharosa App for support services, and SAHAS chatbot for assistance. These platforms aim to improve reporting, tracking, and overall safety awareness.

Together, these initiatives reflect Hyderabad’s multi-layered approach, combining policing, technology, and awareness to create a safer environment for women.

Authorities have also made reporting more accessible through a dedicated WhatsApp number (8712656858) and emergency helpline 100 for immediate assistance.