Polls ahead, UP announces free bus travel for elderly women

As the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections near, the state government has unveiled a new initiative to ease transportation costs for senior women citizens. In a Cabinet meeting convened by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, it was announced that women aged 60 and above will be able to travel free of charge on ordinary state buses. This decision aims to provide much-needed economic relief to older women and enhance their mobility and convenience.

An estimated 88,438 women passengers are expected to benefit from the scheme daily. According to a government official, the move will significantly reduce the commuting expenses for elderly women who regularly travel for various purposes. The Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) will distribute special smart cards to the eligible female beneficiaries to streamline the process of free travel identification.

While this scheme will cost the government Rs 22.50 crore per month, the Uttar Pradesh government believes it is a worthwhile investment in the well-being and independence of its senior citizens. Notably, this initiative mirrors the state government's existing practice of providing free travel to women on state transport buses during the festival of Raksha Bandhan each year.