Kashmir’s First Female Truck Driver Makes Her Mark
Suhail Khan
Women in Kashmir are no longer lagging behind; they are now at the forefront, crafting successful stories through their dedication, passion, and hard work. More importantly, they are becoming sources of inspiration every day, demonstrating that women in Kashmir are independent and standing shoulder to shoulder in what was once a male-dominated society.
One such trailblazer is Rabiya Yaseen, who has captured public attention as Kashmir’s first female truck driver.
In an exclusive interview with The Web Story/The Varmul Post, Rabiya Yaseen, a mother of a 4-year-old daughter, said, “In today’s era, it is often overlooked what kind of work is done and whether it is performed by a man or a woman. What truly matters is earning through hard work and striving to advance.”
She mentioned, “I got married six years ago in Wakherwan, Pulwama, to a truck driver Imtiyaz Ahamd Mir. Initially, after marriage, I would accompany my husband while he was driving the truck, and gradually, I developed a passion for it. One day I told my husband, ‘Why not let me learn proper driving?’”
“I was shocked at that time; I never imagined that learning to drive a truck would become a means of livelihood for me.”
“It’s been a year since I started helping my husband on the road, and we have become a couple of truck drivers together,” Rabiya stated.
“I used to find it very difficult, but now it feels like life is incomplete without driving on the road,” she remarked.
“Throughout this journey, my entire family, including my husband and in-laws, has been supportive and has played an important role in giving me the wings to fly,” Rabiya expressed.
Rabia said, “In less than a year, I have driven a truck on the roads of almost half of India’s major states. On one hand, it’s an amazing feeling, but on the other hand, it presents challenges, especially for a woman.”
“Reflecting on the rise of social media and the empowerment of Kashmiri girls in male-dominated fields, Rabia stated, ‘I’m grateful that so far, Alhamdulillah, my choices have been met with praise and respect. Through my platform, Rabia Vlogs 786, I share my journey and experiences, and the overwhelming love and support I’ve received from people motivate me to continue breaking barriers.'”
When discussing society, especially in Kashmir, where people’s views on women often differ, Rabiya said, “It all depends on an individual’s mindset. When a person is determined to advance through hard work and dedication, then every path leads to success.”
She added, “It’s not like old Kashmir anymore, where women were limited to confining their dreams to being masters of the kitchen.
She noted that while circumstances once posed significant challenges, improved conditions and the evolving landscape now offer opportunities for women. I believe there are no longer any obstacles to pursuing a career; engaging in any kind of work is essential.
She emphasized that there is now the freedom to chase one’s dreams and live life according to personal preferences. However, dedication is crucial to achieving these goals, especially for girls, as it takes resilience and courage to attain success.”
