SRINAGAR, Sep 16: The Jammu and Kashmir government has officially sanctioned free public transport services for differently-abled individuals across the Union territory, a move fulfilling a key budget announcement made earlier this year.
Information was available with The Chenab Times indicating that this new policy will extend to services operated by the Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation, as well as the e-Buses managed by Jammu Smart City Limited and Srinagar Smart City Limited. The initiative aims to enhance accessibility and inclusive mobility for a significant segment of the population within the region.
The decision was announced via a post on X by the Chief Minister’s office, which highlighted the government’s commitment to social justice. The office stated, “Fulfilling a key Budget announcement made in March this year, the Government has sanctioned free ridership for differently-abled persons in public transport.” This measure is expected to facilitate greater ease of travel for those with disabilities, removing financial barriers to using public transit options.
The Chief Minister’s office conveyed congratulations to the Transport Minister, Mr. Satish Sharma, for spearheading this initiative. The Chief Minister remarked that the move reflects the government’s dedication to social justice and represents a crucial step toward ensuring broader accessibility and inclusive mobility throughout Jammu and Kashmir. The policy is designed to provide tangible benefits, improving the daily lives of differently-abled residents by ensuring they can access essential services and engage more fully in community life.
This latest announcement follows a previous policy implemented by the Abdullah-led administration shortly after coming into power, which introduced free public transport for women across Jammu and Kashmir. That policy also aimed at promoting gender equity and facilitating mobility for a large segment of the female population.
The inclusion of e-Buses operated by the Smart City projects in Jammu and Srinagar underscores a modern approach to public transport, integrating newer technologies and services into the welfare framework. The focus on differently-abled persons aligns with national and international efforts to create more accessible and equitable urban and rural environments. Officials emphasized that the implementation details are being worked out to ensure seamless execution of the free ridership policy.
The Chenab Times News Desk