Srinagar, April 1 – The Jammu and Kashmir government has sanctioned free bus services for female passengers across the Union Territory, effective from April 1, 2025. The initiative covers government-owned public transport, including electric buses operated by the Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation (JKRTC) and Jammu/Srinagar Smart City Limited.
The decision, formalized through Government Order No. 28.JK(TR) of 2025, follows the approval of the Council of Ministers and financial authorization from the Finance Department. According to the official notification issued by the Transport Department, the scheme aims to enhance mobility for women and promote gender-inclusive public transport.
“The sanction is hereby accorded to the implementation of free ridership to all female passengers in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir on government-owned public transport, including e-buses run by the JKRTC and Jammu/Srinagar Smart City Limited, with effect from April 1, 2025,” the order stated.
The directive, signed by Transport Secretary Niraj Kumar (IAS), has been communicated to key government officials, including all Financial Commissioners, the Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister, and the Director General of Police, J&K.
The initiative aligns with broader efforts to improve public transport accessibility and affordability for women. The government expects the scheme to encourage increased female participation in the workforce and ease travel constraints for students and working women across the UT.
Authorities will oversee the rollout of the initiative to ensure smooth implementation and monitor its impact on public transport usage.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
