The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet has approved lifelong free bus travel for women aged 60 and above in state-run roadways buses. The decision, cleared alongside more than 20 other proposals, was rolled out under the newly launched Lokmata Ahilyabai Matrushakti Yatra scheme, aimed at improving mobility and safety for elderly women across the state.
What the scheme offers
Under the initiative, women who are 60 years or older can travel free of cost in Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) buses. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched the scheme at the Indira Gandhi Pratishthan in Lucknow and flagged off special buses deployed under the programme, interacting with several women beneficiaries during the event.
- Free travel for women aged 60 and above in state roadways buses.
- Rolled out under the Lokmata Ahilyabai Matrushakti Yatra scheme.
- The Cabinet also approved the induction of 250 electric buses to strengthen public transport.
- Aimed at improving mobility, dignity and safety of elderly women.
Who is eligible
The benefit is intended for senior women residents of Uttar Pradesh aged 60 years or above. Beneficiaries are expected to carry valid age and identity proof — such as an Aadhaar card — while travelling, so conductors can verify eligibility. The exact documentation and boarding process will be detailed by UPSRTC in its official guidelines. Passengers should confirm the final rules through the state transport department before relying on the concession.
Why it matters
Uttar Pradesh is India’s most populous state, and free public transport for elderly women is expected to ease travel costs for a large group, particularly those visiting family, health facilities or religious sites. The state government has framed the move as part of a broader women-focused agenda that includes Mission Shakti centres, women beat officers and safety helplines such as 1090 and 112.
Other Cabinet decisions
According to news reports, the same Cabinet meeting cleared a package of proposals covering transport and welfare, including the plan to add 250 electric buses to the state fleet. Reports also mentioned welfare measures such as tablets for students and allowances for medical students, though the full details of each proposal are being released in phases by the government.
How to check official details
Since the scheme has just been launched, the operational rules — including boarding procedure, proof requirements and route coverage — will be published by UPSRTC and the state transport department. Eligible women and their families should watch the official UPSRTC portal and government announcements for the notified guidelines rather than depending on unofficial summaries.
This is a developing announcement; some operational specifics are reported by news outlets and may be revised once the government issues its formal notification. Always verify the latest eligibility and documentation rules through official Uttar Pradesh government sources before travelling.