An Allocation Of ₹550 Crore Has Been Made For Free Travel For Women
The West Bengal Budget 2026 has allocated ₹550 crore to continue and strengthen the state's free travel initiative for women, reaffirming the government's commitment to enhancing mobility, safety, and economic participation among women. The scheme has emerged as a significant social welfare measure, benefiting millions of women commuters across the state.
The allocation will support free travel facilities for women on government-operated public transport services, helping reduce daily transportation expenses and improve access to workplaces, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and other essential services. The initiative aims to make public transport more accessible while encouraging greater participation of women in economic and social activities.
Officials believe that affordable and accessible transportation plays a crucial role in empowering women, particularly those from low- and middle-income households. By eliminating commuting costs, the scheme helps ease financial burdens and promotes greater independence and mobility for women across urban and rural areas.
The program has also contributed to increased usage of public transportation, supporting sustainable mobility goals while ensuring that women can travel safely and conveniently. The continued budgetary support highlights the state's focus on inclusive development and gender-responsive policymaking.
The ₹550 crore allocation underscores the government's effort to strengthen welfare measures that directly impact everyday lives. As the scheme continues, it is expected to benefit millions of women commuters across West Bengal, improving accessibility, promoting economic inclusion, and supporting broader social development objectives.