The West Bengal government has announced free bus travel for women in all State government-run buses from June 1, 2026. Read on to know more!
West Bengal Govt Announces Free Bus Travel For Women
As per a report by The Hindu, as part of a framework, the scheme is aimed at boosting women’s empowerment and improving accessibility to public transport. According to a circular issued by the State Transport Department on May 21, women passengers will be qualified for free travel in both short-route and long-route State-run buses operating in West Bengal.
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Additionally, the Transport Department stated that all eligible women will receive a smart card featuring a QR code, photograph, and beneficiary details after applying through the respective BDO or SDO offices. According to the notification, the card will be issued based on valid supporting documents such as an Aadhaar card, Voter ID (EPIC), VB-G RAMG job card, Ayushman Bharat health card, driving licence, PAN card, passport, pension documents with photographs, and identity cards issued by Central or State governments/PSUs, as well as school, college, or university ID cards.
When Will The Scheme Come Into Effect?
The notification also states that till issuance of the smart cards, women travellers will be permitted to avail the facility on verification of valid photo identity papers such as Aadhaar card, voter identity card, driving licence, PAN card, passport, government-issued service identity cards, and others.
It also further read that the conductors will issue ‘zero value tickets’ to women passengers after verification of identity documents, it said. The scheme will come into effect from June 1, 2026.
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What are your thoughts about this?
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
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What is West Bengal famous for?
West Bengal is globally celebrated as a vibrant cultural melting pot, renowned for its rich literary heritage, iconic sweets, diverse landscapes ranging from the Himalayas to the Bay of Bengal, and the UNESCO-recognized Durga Puja.
Who is West Bengal CM?
Suvendu Adhikari is the Chief Minister of West Bengal, having assumed office on May 9, 2026.
From when women in West Bengal will be allowed free travel in buses?
The scheme will come into effect from June 1, 2026.