Women Free Bus Travel Scheme – How to Get Free Bus Travel From June 1, 2026? How to Apply

West Bengal Women’s Free Bus Travel: Both the State and Central governments are continuously launching new schemes aimed at women. The government is actively engaged in providing comprehensive support to women, with the ultimate goal of fostering their self-reliance. In this context, the BJP government has presented a significant gift to women: starting June 1, 2026, all women will be able to travel free of cost on buses.

The government will issue QR-code-enabled smart cards to women, based on documents such as their Aadhaar card or EPIC (Voter ID). This initiative is being undertaken with the specific objective of empowering women. The government is issuing these smart cards to ensure that women face no difficulties while travelling. So, let us explore the details of this scheme in depth…

Free Travel on All Buses
According to the Transport Department, the West Bengal government has taken this major step for the benefit of women. A decision has been made to implement a free travel scheme across all government buses within the state. Under this scheme, all women residing in the state will be granted the facility to travel on all types of government buses without paying any fare.

Issuance of Smart Cards
To facilitate free travel for women, the government will also issue a dedicated smart card. This card will be digital and will feature a QR code, the woman’s name, and a photograph. Every eligible woman will be issued this smart card upon application; to apply, she must visit the office of the Block Development Officer (BDO) or Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) in her respective area. Until the government officially issues these smart cards, women will be permitted to travel free of cost simply by presenting a valid government-issued photo identity card.

Documents Required for Obtaining a Smart Card
When applying for a smart card, women must submit specific documents. These include: Aadhaar Card, Voter ID (EPIC), MGNREGA Job Card, Ayushman Card, Driving License, PAN Card, Passport, or any other identity card issued by the Government of West Bengal.