West Bengal Announces Free Bus Travel for Women from June 1
Kolkata: In a move aimed at empowering women and improving access to public transport, the West Bengal government has announced free travel for women on all state-run buses across the state from June 1.
All women in West Bengal will be provided with free transportation in both short- and long-distance government buses of various categories, according to a notification from the Ministry of Transport issued on May 21.
To implement the scheme, the state government will offer a digital Smart Card with QR code, photo and beneficiary details. Women can apply for a card through the relevant BDO or SDO offices.
Applicants will be required to submit identification documents such as Aadhaar Card, EPIC, PAN Card, Passport, Driving License, Ayushman Bharat Card, government-issued identity cards or other approved identity documents along with a recent photograph.
Until Smart Cards are issued, women commuters can enjoy free travel by showing a valid government-issued photo ID. During this interim period, conductors will issue “Zero Value Tickets” or thermal paper tickets after verification.
The notification stated that the decision was approved by the Ministry of Finance and the State Cabinet. The plan will officially come into effect on June 1, 2026.
