Iran To Launch Women-Only Taxi Company For Tehran

Men and women often share taxis in Iran (epa) December 9, 2006 -- Iran will launch a women-only taxi company in Tehran aimed at women who feel uncomfortable riding in close proximity with members of the opposite sex.

The "Tehran-e Emrouz" newspaper reports that the company, called the "Ladies' Safe Trips" taxi company, will be the first such private firm in the capital.

Similar taxi companies have been operating in Iranian other cities for several years.

The company will employ only married female drivers.

Under Islamic law in Iran, men and women mostly travel in separate sections on public transport.

But it is common for men and women to share taxis in many cities, often in cramped conditions.

(Reuters)