kolkata

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; Kolkata, June 1: The free bus service for women has officially come into effect across West Bengal from June 1. The state government had previously declared that the scheme would be implemented from the first day of June following the formation of the government. In line with that announcement, women passengers are no longer required to pay fares on government-operated buses from Monday onward.

Under the new arrangement, women boarding government buses are being issued zero-fare tickets as proof of travel. The benefit has been introduced across the state, from northern districts to southern regions, ensuring that eligible women passengers can access the facility regardless of their location within West Bengal.

The scheme is applicable not only for short-distance travel but also for long-distance bus routes. Women commuters using inter-district and long-route government bus services are also entitled to travel free of charge under the initiative. To avail themselves of the benefit, passengers must present any one of the approved identity documents to the bus conductor before receiving a complimentary ticket.

The guidelines, a total of twelve different documents have been accepted as valid proof of identity. Among the most commonly used documents is the Aadhaar card. In addition, women can also present their voter identity card, the government-issued 100 Days Work Card, the Ayushman Bharat card, driving licence, PAN card, passport, and several other officially recognized identity documents.

The required document is verified, the passenger is issued a ticket carrying a fare value of zero, allowing her to travel without paying any bus fare. The system has been introduced to ensure transparency and proper record-keeping while extending the benefit to eligible women across the state.

The launch of the free bus service is expected to provide significant financial relief to women who rely on public transportation for daily commuting, education, work, and other travel needs. With the scheme now operational throughout West Bengal, thousands of women are expected to benefit from reduced transportation expenses while enjoying greater accessibility and mobility across the state's public transport network.