Deputy Chief Minister
launches Free Bus Service for Women in Jammu
JAMMU, APRIL 01: In a significant step towards
enhancing women welfare coupled with improving public transportation, Deputy
Chief Minister, Surinder Chowdhary, today launched a free bus service for women
across the region.
The initiative included both the electric buses and
Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation (JKRTC) buses. This will ensure
safe, accessible and cost-free travel for women, including working
professionals, students and daily commuters.
The launch event, held in Jammu, was attended by the Commissioner
Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC), along with senior officers from the
concerned departments.
The Deputy Chief Minister flagged off the service,
marking fulfilment of yet another key promise of the present government.
Speaking to media persons at the event, the Deputy
Chief Minister emphasized the government’s commitment towards addressing the
needs of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. “Since formation of present
government, we have worked tirelessly to deliver on our promises, including
restoration of statehood, protection of jobs and land, provision of free
electricity and now this free bus service for women,” he stated. He added that
the initiative reflects the administration’s efforts towards alleviating the
travel burdens faced by women besides promoting their empowerment.
During the flag-off ceremony, the Deputy Chief
Minister interacted with the women passengers, reiterating the government’s
dedication towards resolving longstanding issues in the region. “This is a step
towards ensuring women’s safety, convenience and inclusion in public spaces. We
are committed towards addressing all genuine concerns of the people of Jammu
and Kashmir,” he said.
To avail the free service, the women only need to show
their Aadhaar cards to the bus conductor upon boarding any government-operated
bus, including e-Buses. The JKRTC has streamlined the process by equipping the
conductors with POS machines to register passengers efficiently by entering
their Aadhaar details.
This pioneering initiative is expected to set a
benchmark for women-centric policies in the region, fostering greater mobility
and independence for women across Jammu and Kashmir.