The West Bengal government has unveiled a new scheme offering free bus travel for women in all state government-run buses, effective from June 1. This initiative is designed to bolster women's empowerment and enhance their access to public transportation across the state.
Scheme Details
According to a notification issued by the state transport department on May 21, women commuters will be eligible for free travel on both short-route and long-route state-run buses operating throughout West Bengal. The scheme aims to reduce the financial burden on women and encourage greater mobility.
Smart Card Implementation
The transport department notification specifies that a smart card equipped with a QR code, photograph, and beneficiary details will be issued to all eligible women. Applications for the smart card can be submitted through the block development office (BDO) or sub-divisional office (SDO) concerned.
To obtain the smart card, women must provide supporting documents such as Aadhaar card, elector's photo identity card (EPIC), VB-G RAMG job card, Ayushman Bharat health card, driving license, PAN card, passport, pension document with photograph, identity card of central/state government or public sector undertakings, or identity cards issued by schools, colleges, or universities.
Temporary Arrangements
Until the smart cards are issued, women passengers can avail the free travel facility by presenting valid photo identity documents. Acceptable documents include Aadhaar card, voter identity card, driving license, PAN card, passport, and government-issued service identity cards. Conductors will issue "zero value tickets" to women passengers after verifying their identity documents.
This initiative is expected to benefit millions of women across the state, promoting gender equality and making public transport more accessible. The scheme aligns with broader efforts to enhance women's safety and independence in West Bengal.
