Changing Gears: Female Truck Drivers Are Pioneering Sustainability

A big change is happening in the long-haul trucking industry, and women are driving it. The trucking sector, which was formerly dominated by men, is currently undergoing change as more and more women take the helm.

Even more amazing is how these female truck drivers are not only navigating the roadways but also setting the standard for sustainability in a sector recognised for its environmental difficulties.

A Growing Presence on the Road

In India, the United States, and other countries, the proportion of female truck drivers has been expanding rapidly in recent years. These women are defying gender norms and demonstrating that trucking is open to all genders. They are assuming the same hard work tasks, travelling thousands of miles, and, most importantly, offering the industry new viewpoints.

Environmental Challenges in Trucking

The global economy depends heavily on the trucking sector since it moves commodities across cities, states, and even whole nations. Trucking does, however, provide several environmental issues. Due to their notoriously high emissions, diesel-powered vehicles are a major source of both air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the sector has been battling problems like fuel usage and efficiency.

The industry needs more female truck drivers to handle environmental issues and advance sustainability. They excel in reducing fuel consumption and pollutants by using techniques like careful driving. To cut emissions and dependency on fossil fuels, many people are embracing eco-friendly technology, such as electric and hybrid trucks. They actively promote sustainability, participate in supply chain management and logistics for efficiency, and mentor the next generation, promoting diversity and sustainability in the workplace. These women are change agents, paving the way for a transportation business that is more environmentally friendly.

"The trucking industry has undergone a remarkable transformation, and women are driving this change. We are directing the industry towards a more sustainable future, not just the wheels. Who can have a beneficial influence on our environment shouldn't be determined by their gender. We, female truck drivers, are demonstrating that everyone can take the reins to protect the environment," said Yogita Raghuvanshi, the first female truck driver in India.

Of course, it's important to realise that obstacles still exist for women working in trucking, including discrimination, prejudices, and the physically demanding nature of the work. But their tenacity and tenacity are dismantling obstacles and creating more inclusive workplaces.

Additionally, groups for the transportation sector and trucking businesses are increasingly valuing diversity and sustainability. By investing in more environmentally friendly technology and offering training and support networks, they are putting programs in place to empower female truck drivers and advance sustainable practices.

Long-distance trucking is changing as more women get behind the wheel. They are leaders in sustainability and show that gender does not matter when it comes to caring for the environment. We can anticipate even more innovation and advancement in making the sector greener and more sustainable for future generations as the proportion of women working in trucking keeps increasing. These women are demonstrating that they are not only guiding trucks toward a more environmentally responsible future but also the industry.

With the September 14 launch of Highway Heroes+ in partnership with the All-India Transporters Welfare Association (AITWA), which we feel will significantly impact the trucking sector, we are moving in the right path. Our dedication to assisting and empowering truck drivers is embodied in the Highway Heroes+ card, which provides up to 5 lakhs in personal accident insurance, hospitalisation coverage, a 24-hour helpline, and financial assistance through our mobile app. We want to work with AITWA to build a more inclusive and sustainable future for the sector. 

Authored by Himanshu Gupta, Founder and CEO of Lawyered, which provides legal services for truck drivers all around the country. 

Suggested reading: In The First, Women Drivers Take Charge Of Maharashtra State Buses