Uttar Pradesh launches free lifetime bus travel for women over 60

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has launched the ‘Lokmata Ahilyabai Matrushakti Yatra Yojana’, a scheme providing lifelong free bus travel on Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) buses for women aged 60 and above. To access the benefit, eligible women must present a valid identity document, such as an Aadhaar card or Voter ID.

In conjunction with the launch, the government announced a special three-day free travel period for all women and their one accompanying passenger during the Raksha Bandhan festival, spanning August 27 to August 29. To manage the expected increase in commuters, the transport department has deployed additional buses, staff, and supervisors at major stations, and introduced incentive schemes for drivers and conductors.

The scheme is named after the 18th-century ruler Ahilyabai Holkar to honor her legacy of women's empowerment and good governance. During the launch in Lucknow, the Chief Minister also distributed smart travel cards to elderly women and emphasized the government's commitment to women's safety and mobility.