In A Progressive First, Kochi Metro Station Installs Breastfeeding Pods For New Mothers
The Kochi Metro Rail Limited has installed feeding pods at the metro stations so that lactating mothers can breastfeed their babies in privacy. The first pod was inaugurated at the Aluva station which will be followed by Edappally MG Road and Lissie station in the coming month. The Indian Railways is talking to the start-up to set up these pods in railway stations too.
In a progressive move in the area of women welfare, the Kochi Metro Rail Limited has installed feeding pods at the metro stations so that lactating mothers can breastfeed their babies in privacy.
According to reports, the KMRL has collaborated with a health start-up, ¡®I love 9 months¡¯ and a private hospital to set these up at four different stations.
Indian Express
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Speaking about this, the Managing Director, APM Mohammed Hanish of KMRL said ¡°The message that we are trying to send is simple: to create more safe and hygienic spaces for women in our society. This has been done considering how difficult it is for mothers to breastfeed their babies in public. After we launch in the first four stations, we will take feedback and then think about expanding it to other stations across the network.¡±
The first pod was inaugurated at the Aluva station which will be followed by Edappally, MG Road and Lissie station in the coming month.
Indian Express
Ganga Raj, one of the founders of the startup said, ¡°The most challenging part for nursing mothers is to feed in a public space. When they¡¯re travelling, it¡¯s all the more difficult. So, this pod is a safe, private space for a mother to breastfeed her baby. Just before boarding, she has the option to breastfeed her baby and then get into the train. We¡¯re trying to make travelling easier for both mother and baby.¡±
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According to reports, the pods are made out of fibre-reinforced plastic which provides a safe and private space for mothers. It also has many facilities like - comfortable seating, adequate lighting, hand sanitizer holder and a charging point. The Indian Railways is talking to the start-up to set up these pods in railway stations too.
Breastfeeding in public continues to be taboo in most parts of our country. It's normal and natural and no mother should be shamed, made to feel uncomfortable or sexualised for giving food to her child. Initiatives like this one help women find safe spaces while travelling, so they don't have to stress about not being able to feed their babies.
