West Bengal Begins Free Bus Travel Scheme For Women
Women across West Bengal started availing free travel on state-run buses from Monday after the state government officially implemented its new welfare transport scheme. The initiative is expected to provide financial relief to thousands of women commuters who spend a large part of their monthly income on transportation.
The scheme, which was one of the major promises made by the BJP ahead of the Assembly elections, applies to women travelling on both short-distance and long-distance buses operated by the state government. Authorities introduced the service statewide on Monday morning, allowing eligible women passengers to travel without paying fare after a simple identity verification process.
Under the current system, women commuters are required to carry at least one approved identity document while travelling. Accepted documents include Aadhaar card, voter identity card, PAN card, passport, driving licence, Ayushman Bharat card, pension documents, government service identity cards, and educational institution identity cards, among others approved by the state government.
Bus conductors have been specially trained to verify the documents before issuing “zero-value” tickets instead of collecting fare from passengers. Officials said the document-based verification process is temporary and will continue until the government launches a dedicated smart card system for beneficiaries.
Many women welcomed the scheme on its first day, saying it would significantly reduce their travel expenses. One commuter said she spends nearly Rs 8,500 to Rs 9,000 every month on transportation while travelling 50 to 60 kilometres daily, adding that the free bus service would offer major financial support.
The transport department has also announced plans to introduce digital smart cards with QR codes and photographs for easier identification and verification. Women will reportedly be able to apply for these cards through administrative offices such as BDO and SDO offices.
The initiative aims to improve women’s mobility, reduce travel costs and encourage safer, affordable public transportation across the state. Officials stated that the system functioned smoothly on the first day, with passengers receiving zero-value tickets after verification.
