Siliguri, 01 June (Siliguri Chronicle) – Free travel for women in state-run buses officially commenced across West Bengal on Monday under a newly launched government initiative. The scheme, announced by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari after the formation of the new government, allows women passengers to travel without paying fares on state-operated buses.
The first day of the service witnessed a strong response in Siliguri, particularly at Tenzing Norgay Bus Terminus, where a large number of women passengers gathered from early morning to avail themselves of the facility on buses operated by the North Bengal State Transport Corporation (NBSTC).
Women travelling to destinations such as Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar and Cooch Behar were seen collecting seat numbers at ticket counters after producing Aadhaar cards or other valid government-issued identity documents. For long-distance routes, conductors verified passengers’ identity documents after boarding and issued free tickets accordingly.
The initiative enabled women to travel to their destinations free of cost, resulting in a noticeable rush and excitement at the bus terminus throughout the day.
Daily commuters, working women, students and tourists welcomed the move, stating that the savings on transportation expenses would provide some relief to household budgets.
The scheme received an overwhelming response across North Bengal on its very first day, with women passengers expressing appreciation for the new benefit.
