The West Bengal government notifies free travel for women on all state-run buses starting June 1, following a Transport Department order issued on May 21. The scheme covers women commuters using both short-route and long-route buses operated within the state.
Under the notification, eligible women receive a smart card that includes a QR code, the beneficiary’s photograph, and other beneficiary details. The card is issued after women apply through the relevant Block Development Officer (BDO) or Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) offices.
Eligibility is determined based on supporting documents such as identity and address proofs, including Aadhaar and other specified government-issued cards and documents. The notification states that women from the state will be issued smart cards upon verification of the required documentation.
The policy is presented as aimed at improving women’s access to public transport as well as supporting empowerment-related objectives, with implementation beginning from the specified date.
