Jammu | March 08, 2025
In a heartwarming gesture to celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, women across Jammu & Kashmir and various Indian cities are being offered free bus rides today, March 08, as a tribute to their contributions and resilience. This initiative, embraced by multiple state transport authorities, underscores a growing tradition of honouring #women with enhanced mobility and recognition on this global occasion.
A Day of Celebration and Convenience
From the bustling streets of Jammu to the serene valleys of Kashmir, women commuters are stepping onto government buses without reaching for their wallets. Inspired by successful precedents in cities like Pune, Bengaluru, and Vasai-Virar, transport corporations have rolled out this one-day perk to mark the day dedicated to gender equality and empowerment. “It’s a small but meaningful way to celebrate #women and make their day a little easier,” said a spokesperson from the J&K Road Transport Corporation (JKRTC), echoing sentiments shared by officials nationwide.
Building on a Tradition of Empowerment
The practice of offering free bus rides on International Women’s Day has gained traction in recent years. In 2024, the Pune Mahanagar Parivahan Mahamandal Ltd (PMPML) provided complimentary travel on 17 routes, while Bengaluru’s BMTC extended free rides across its entire fleet in 2023, including premium airport services, expecting over 20 lakh women passengers. This year, J&K joins the fold, with authorities anticipating a surge in ridership as women seize the opportunity to travel for work, leisure, or simply to enjoy the gesture. Special arrangements, such as women-only buses in some areas, are also being piloted to enhance comfort and safety.
A Boost for Mobility and Morale
Beyond convenience, the initiative carries a deeper significance. For many women, especially in rural and semi-urban areas, free transport eases financial burdens and opens doors to opportunities—be it attending community events, visiting markets, or commuting to jobs. “I can visit my family today without worrying about the fare,” shared Sunita Devi, a domestic worker in Jammu, reflecting a sentiment felt by countless others. Local vendors near bus stops are also gearing up for increased footfall, expecting a ripple effect on small businesses.
A Step Toward Inclusion
The free ride scheme aligns with broader efforts to empower #women, a theme resonant on this International Women’s Day. While some states like Telangana and Delhi offer year-round free bus travel for women under schemes like the Mahalakshmi initiative and Pink Ticket Pass, the one-day gesture on March 08 has become a symbolic nationwide tradition. Transport officials hope it encourages more women to embrace public transit, reducing traffic congestion and fostering a sense of community. In J&K, the move complements recent announcements, such as free travel starting April 1 under broader empowerment programs, previewing a future of sustained support.
A Day to Remember
As buses roll out across J&K and beyond today, adorned with banners celebrating #women, the free rides serve as more than a practical gift—they’re a nod to the strength and spirit of half the population. With the sun setting on March 08, 2025, the initiative will conclude with smiles, stories, and perhaps a renewed appreciation for public transport’s role in connecting lives. For now, women commuters are invited to hop on, enjoy the ride, and revel in a day crafted just for them.