Punjab Government’s Revolutionary Free Bus Travel Initiative Empowers Over 32 Crore Women
The Government of Punjab has taken a monumental step in promoting gender equality through its groundbreaking free bus travel scheme, which has significantly benefited lakhs of women across the state. Since its introduction, the Aam Aadmi Party-led government has invested over ₹1,548 crore in providing free bus travel to women, with the initiative continually expanding. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, this scheme represents a key milestone in empowering women across Punjab.
Women in Punjab have widely utilised this benefit by travelling in state-run Punjab Roadways, PunBus, and PRTC buses. According to official data, women have undertaken an impressive 32.46 crore journeys, highlighting the far-reaching impact of this program. By making public transportation accessible to all women, the government is not only providing convenience but also fostering greater independence and financial savings for women across the state.
The Punjab Government’s substantial financial commitment to this initiative is evident, as demonstrated in the table below
Time Period Amount Spent (₹ Crore) Journeys Benefited (Crore)
March 2022 – 23 664.63 14.29
Financial Year 2023-24 694.64 14.90
By July 15, 2024 188.98 3.37
Total (Cumulative) 1546.25 32.46
Key Highlights:
Total Amount Spent: ₹ 1,548 crore
Total Journeys Undertaken: ₹ 32.46 crore
Breaking down the financial commitment, the government has spent ₹664.63 crore from March 2022 to March 2023, benefiting 14.29 crore journeys. In the 2023-2024 financial year, ₹694.64 crore was allocated, supporting 14.90 crore journeys. By July 15, 2024, another ₹188.98 crore had been spent, benefiting 3.27 crore journeys. These figures highlight the Punjab Government’s ongoing commitment to providing essential support to women through affordable and accessible transportation.
This scheme is much more than just a free travel initiative. It underscores the Punjab Government’s dedication to social welfare, gender equality, and the empowerment of women. The free bus travel program helps women access education, healthcare, and employment opportunities more easily, contributing to their personal and professional growth.
As the scheme continues to make a transformative impact, it not only offers convenience but also symbolises progress and development for women in Punjab. The government remains committed to creating a more inclusive, equal society through such initiatives