Free Bus Travel: The West Bengal government has officially notified the rollout of free travel for all women in state-run buses from June 1, 2026. This landmark decision, aimed at boosting women’s empowerment and increasing their access to public transport, was announced via Transport Department Notification No.1723-WT/TPT/18011/30/2026 on May 21, 2026.
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Scope and Bus Categories
The benefit of free travel is applicable to all women residents of West Bengal in all categories of state government-run buses. It covers both short-route local buses and long-route transit services. The initiative secured cabinet approval on May 18, 2026 under file No. T-D-2, and concurrence from the Finance Department on May 16, 2026.
How to Get the Smart Card
To streamline the process, a digital Smart Card with a QR code, photograph, and beneficiary name will be issued to each applicant. Women can apply for this card at their respective Block Development Officer (BDO) or Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) offices.
Applicants can submit any of the following supporting documents along with a recent photograph:
- Aadhaar Card
- Elector’s Photo Identity Card (EPIC)
- VB-GRAMG Job Card (Grameen Rozgar Guarantee Card)
- Ayushman Bharat Health Card
- Driving License or PAN Card
- Indian Passport or Pension document with photograph
- Official Service Identity Cards of Central/State government, PSUs, or Public Limited Companies
- School, College, or University Photo ID card
- Any other Government of West Bengal issued photo identity document
Temporary Travel Rules Until Card Issuance
Since issuing smart cards to millions of women will take time, a temporary identification system has been set up for the immediate rollout starting June 1, 2026. Women can travel for free by showing any of the approved government-issued photo identity cards to the on-duty bus conductor. After validating the document, the conductor will issue a Zero Value Ticket or Thermal Paper Ticket at no cost.
Daily Life Impact and Benefits
For regular commuters, particularly female office-goers, students, and self-employed women, this policy will significantly lower their monthly commuting costs. Daily travel expenses can add up to ₹1,500 to ₹2,500 per month for long-distance commuters, and saving this amount will provide immediate relief to household budgets. This move, alongside the implementation of the 7th Pay Commission and the ₹3,000 monthly Annapurna Bhandar Scheme by the newly elected Suvendu Adhikari-led government, is expected to enhance household savings and boost local consumption.
Department: Transport Department
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