The West Bengal Transport Department has released a notification outlining the necessary identity documents for women to access free rides on state-operated buses, following an initiative introduced by the new government led by Suvendu Adhikari. The notification emphasizes the requirement for valid identification to ensure that female residents can benefit from this program. Among the accepted identity documents are Aadhaar, EPIC card, Grameen Rozgar Guarantee Card, Ayushman Bharat Health Card, driving license, PAN Card, passport, pension document with a photo, service identity cards issued by government entities, and other official ID cards along with a recent photo issued by the Government of West Bengal.
It is mandatory for women to present one of the specified identity documents to avail themselves of the free-ride service. Additionally, the notification states that each female beneficiary can apply for a smart card with a photo and name, containing a QR code, from the BDO/SDO office. Until the smart card is issued, the listed documents can be used for travel benefits.
To facilitate an immediate rollout and until the smart cards are distributed, women can use any photo ID card mentioned earlier, issued by the competent government authority for identification. Upon verification of the ID, bus conductors will provide women commuters with ‘Zero Value Ticket’ or ‘Thermal Paper Ticket’ upon request, as mentioned in the state transport department’s notification.
The initiative, scheduled to commence on June 1, aims to promote women’s empowerment and improve their access to public transportation, as per the notification.
