Features
Anas Riyaz, Rufat Reshi In the picturesque but conservative terrain of Kashmir, where women are often relegated to traditional roles by societal norms. Many among them are coming forward, testing their metal in areas once deemed strictly male domains. Among them is Rabia Yaseen, Kashmir’s first female truck driver, whose grit and courage have broken barriers and inspired countless others. A Passion-Fueled Journey Rabia Yaseen, 27-year-old mother from Wakherwan, Pulwama, is challenging conventional norms one mile at a time on the road. It’s a tale of courage, passion, and abiding family support. Rabia was wed six years back to Imtiyaz Ahmad Mir, a veteran truck driver, and it was as an inquisitive co-passenger sitting by his side that her foray into driving heavy vehicles commenced. “At first, I would just go with my husband on his trips, observing him driving on the roads. As time went by, I was fascinated by the possibility of driving a truck myself. One day, I asked my husband, ‘Why not let me learn?’” she says. Much to her surprise, Imtiyaz welcomed her passion with open arms. “He believed in me when even I had doubts. He taught me patiently and made me drive, quite literally.” From the Passenger Seat to the Driver’s Cabin Rabia’s journey from being a passive observer to becoming a professional truck driver was not overnight. She went through rigorous practice, learning the technicalities of driving a heavy vehicle. “It was not easy. The first few days were difficult, and I used to feel nervous. But with practice, I became confident. Now, I can drive long distances without any hesitation,” she says with pride. Today, it has been a year since Rabia formally joined her husband in driving trucks across different states of India. They form a rare couple—a married couple driving on the roads while challenging the norms of society. Navigating Challenges on the Road While the thrill of being behind the wheel is empowering, the road has its fair share of hurdles. Rabia acknowledges that the trucking industry is not an easy space, especially for a woman. “Traveling from state to state, coping with male-dominated environments, and working long hours can be tough. There are moments when individuals question my capability simply because I am a woman. But I allow my work to do the talking,” she claims. Despite the odds, Rabia is unfazed. Her family’s support and the well-wishers’ encouragement online give her the push she needs. Through her YouTube channel, Rabia Vlogs 786, she vlogs her journey, offering advice on life on the road and encouraging other women to shatter barriers. Shattering Stereotypes and Changing Perceptions Kashmir, being as much of a traditional state as others, has historically practiced strict gender roles, whereby the woman stayed behind in her household. According to Rabia, things are on the mend, though. “It’s not like it used to be where women were stuck at home in the kitchen. Now we have Kashmiri women making a mark in all sorts of fields. If a woman can be a pilot, a doctor, or a police officer, why not a truck driver?” she asks. Rabia’s view strikes a chord with numerous young women in Kashmir hoping to break beyond boundaries. Kashmiri Women Redefining Possibilities Across Professions “Iqra, a social activist, praises Rabia’s bravery and highlights the wider significance of her experience. “Rabia’s tale is not merely about driving a truck; it’s about shattering barriers and redefining possibilities for women in Kashmir. And she is not alone. We have witnessed a female rickshaw driver in Srinagar who earns a living for her family through her toil.”. This is evidence that Kashmiri women are on their own feet and doing wonders. It’s not merely a matter of driving autos or trucks; we women can do much more. We can be stars and the backbone of our families, as many already are.” “Kashmir has evolved, and it has evolved for the better. Now, people here do understand and respect one another. Gender superiority is no longer a big hindrance, and we can see instances all over. Take the ‘Waza’ tradition, for example—once a male-dominated field, now we have wazas who are women entering this cultural sphere. Women are employed in every field,contributing to an evolving society and creating jobs.” “Social media is one key aspect of this change. It has played a gigantic role in boosting women-led causes. Now we have many businesses owned by women, and social media has given them a platform to get support and even get international customers. But as women, we need to look towards giving back to the overall good of our society as well. The unemployment rate in Kashmir is very high, and it has led many astray, but we need to understand that with passion and proper support, we can create opportunities and bring change. Women in Kashmir are showing that they are not only capable—they are unstoppable.” Iqra further added. A Message of Encouragement Rabia hopes to encourage other women to follow their dreams no matter what society says.”If you have a dream, don’t let fear stop you. Hard work, dedication, and a little bit of support from people you love can make anything happen. If I can do it, then so can you,” she says smiling forcefully.As Rabia keeps driving across the nation, she is not only carrying cargo, but also a strong message of empowerment, strength, and hope. Her journey is a testament to the fact that the roads are open to all, be it male or female, as long as one has the guts to take the wheel.
