<p>In a novel move, a private bus operators' association in West Bengal has decided to reserve two seats for transgender commuters in buses affiliated to it, an official said.</p>.<p>Joint Council of Bus Syndicates general secretary Tapan Banerjee said two seats in every bus associated with the organisation will be marked as "Tridhara".</p>.<p>He claimed that around 35,000-40,000 buses in the state are affiliated with the association.</p>.<p>"It is not just about earmarking two seats but to recognise transgender people and create awareness among commuters to treat them as equals," Banerjee said.</p>.<p>He said the process of marking the seats has already begun in a couple of routes in the city and will be done in all buses associated with the council.</p>.<p>"This will also sensitise the staff of the buses as well as passengers to treat people from the third gender with respect," Banerjee said.</p>.<p>He urged the state transport undertakings and other private operators to join the syndicate in the endeavour by keeping two seats reserved for transgenders in each bus. </p>
<p>In a novel move, a private bus operators' association in West Bengal has decided to reserve two seats for transgender commuters in buses affiliated to it, an official said.</p>.<p>Joint Council of Bus Syndicates general secretary Tapan Banerjee said two seats in every bus associated with the organisation will be marked as "Tridhara".</p>.<p>He claimed that around 35,000-40,000 buses in the state are affiliated with the association.</p>.<p>"It is not just about earmarking two seats but to recognise transgender people and create awareness among commuters to treat them as equals," Banerjee said.</p>.<p>He said the process of marking the seats has already begun in a couple of routes in the city and will be done in all buses associated with the council.</p>.<p>"This will also sensitise the staff of the buses as well as passengers to treat people from the third gender with respect," Banerjee said.</p>.<p>He urged the state transport undertakings and other private operators to join the syndicate in the endeavour by keeping two seats reserved for transgenders in each bus. </p>