Qazigund, Jammu & Kashmir, May 3, 2025 – In a significant move to empower women and enhance their mobility, Abdul Majeed Larmi, MLA from Anantnag West, flagged off a free government bus service exclusively for women on Friday, May 2, 2025, operating from Qazigund to Srinagar. The initiative, launched under the Jammu and Kashmir government’s commitment to gender equality and public welfare, aims to provide safe, accessible, and cost-free transportation for women across the region.
The inaugural event, held in Qazigund, was attended by Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO) Anantnag, Jan Mubashir, alongside other officials. Larmi, a National Conference leader, emphasized the service’s role in supporting women’s independence, particularly for those commuting for education, work, or daily needs. “This bus service is a step toward ensuring women can travel with dignity and safety,” Larmi said, highlighting its alignment with the region’s broader development goals.
The free bus service addresses a critical need in Qazigund, a key transit point on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, which has faced challenges like recent landslides and a bus accident in the Banihal-Qazigund Navyug Tunnel. By offering a dedicated transport option, the initiative ensures women can navigate these routes securely, fostering greater participation in economic and social activities. This move complements other regional efforts, such as JKEDI’s Entrepreneurship Orientation Program and educational achievements in Anantnag and Srinagar, reflecting a collective push for progress.
The service has been warmly received, with social media posts praising Larmi’s initiative as a game-changer for women in South Kashmir. Hashtags like Free Bus Service, Qazigund, and Women Empowerment trended locally, with users noting its potential to inspire similar programs elsewhere. The launch also resonates with Omar Abdullah’s recent World Press Freedom Day message, underscoring the importance of actionable steps to strengthen community welfare.
Operated by the Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation , the bus service is expected to run multiple trips daily, covering the approximately 60-kilometer route between Qazigund and Srinagar. Authorities have assured regular maintenance and safety checks to ensure a reliable experience. Women commuters expressed gratitude, with one stating, “This service makes travel easier and safer, especially for those of us who rely on public transport.”
As Jammu and Kashmir continues to prioritize inclusive development, Abdul Majeed Larmi’s free bus service stands out as a beacon of empowerment, enabling women to access opportunities with greater ease and confidence.
