kolkata

IIE DIGITAL DESK : Kolkata, May 22: The West Bengal Transport Department has announced a major welfare initiative for women, declaring that travel on all state-run government buses will be completely free starting June 1. The decision was officially communicated through a notification issued on Friday, aimed at improving accessibility, safety, and convenience for women commuters across the state.

The free travel facility will be applicable on all categories of government buses, including both short-distance and long-distance services. The government stated that the initiative has been introduced to ensure safer and more comfortable daily commuting for women while also encouraging greater use of public transport.

To streamline the implementation of the scheme, a special smart card system will be introduced for beneficiaries. Women will be able to apply for the card through their respective Block Development Office (BDO) or Sub-Divisional Office (SDO) by submitting necessary documents. The smart card will contain the beneficiary’s photograph, identity details, and a QR code for verification purposes.

Documents such as voter ID, PAN card, passport, or other valid government-issued identity proofs will be accepted for registration. However, the Transport Department has clarified that the absence of the smart card will not prevent access to the scheme during the initial phase.

Until the smart card system becomes fully operational, conductors on state buses will issue “zero value tickets” to women passengers upon presentation of any valid photo identification. This interim arrangement ensures that the benefit begins immediately without delay.

Officials stated that the initiative is designed to reduce daily travel expenses for women, especially working professionals and students, while also promoting the use of public transport and improving the efficiency of the state’s bus network.