Jammu & Kashmir Launches Free Bus Travel Initiative for Women
Last Updated on April 2, 2025 by Athi Venkatesh
The Jammu & Kashmir government has introduced a groundbreaking initiative to empower women across the region. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah launched the Zero-Ticket Travel Scheme, offering free bus rides for women, including schoolgirls. With this scheme, women can now travel for free on Smart City e-buses and Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation (JKRTC) buses.
The scheme, announced during the 2023 budget speech, is designed to break down barriers that limit women’s mobility. By offering free travel, the government aims to make daily commutes more accessible for women, especially those from economically weaker backgrounds.
At the launch event, which took place at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), Omar Abdullah emphasized that this initiative was not just about removing the cost of travel but also about creating a safer and more accessible environment for women. He stressed that the government is committed to fostering women’s empowerment by providing them with more freedom to move around the region without financial constraints.
This initiative, which was initially launched on March 7, 2023, is a part of a broader effort to uplift women in Jammu & Kashmir. The free bus travel scheme is designed to make it easier for women to access education, jobs, shopping, and community activities. By removing the cost of travel, the government is helping women engage more fully in social and economic life.
The scheme also has a positive impact on women’s safety. Public transportation can often be a source of concern for women, especially in areas where mobility is limited. By ensuring free access to buses, the government aims to provide women with more control over their daily routines, making it safer and easier for them to navigate their communities.
The Zero-Ticket Travel Scheme is an important step towards achieving gender equality in Jammu & Kashmir. It ensures that women have the same opportunities to participate in daily life as men. This initiative is expected to improve the quality of life for countless women, breaking down social and economic barriers while promoting their empowerment.
As the government continues to roll out more programs to support women and marginalized groups, this free bus travel initiative stands out as a significant milestone in the region’s efforts to foster a more inclusive and equal society. With this scheme, Jammu & Kashmir is taking an important step toward building a future where women can thrive and contribute fully to their communities.
