Srinagar, April 1, 2025 – Chief Minister Omar Abdullah flagged off a groundbreaking initiative, the Free Bus Service for Women, across Jammu and Kashmir. Starting today, women in the region can travel free of cost on all Smart City and State Road Transport Corporation (SRTC) buses, marking a significant step toward women’s empowerment, accessible mobility, and a more inclusive J&K.
The launch event, held earlier today, saw CM Omar Abdullah emphasising the broader vision behind the scheme. “This isn’t just a welfare measure,” he stated. “It’s a commitment to empowering women, ensuring they have safe and accessible transportation, and fostering a more inclusive Jammu and Kashmir.” The initiative, first announced in the J&K Budget 2025-26 on March 7, 2025, fulfils a promise made ahead of International Women’s Day, reflecting the government’s focus on gender equity and public welfare.
The Free Bus Service for Women covers both urban and rural areas, integrating Smart City buses—known for their modern amenities—and SRTC buses, which form the backbone of the state’s public transport system. This move is expected to benefit thousands of women daily, from students and working professionals to homemakers, by removing financial barriers to mobility.
Omar Abdullah, addressing the gathering, highlighted the transformative potential of the scheme. “Accessible transportation is a right, not a privilege. By making it free for women, we’re enabling them to pursue education, employment, and personal growth without the burden of travel costs,” he said. The initiative aligns with his administration’s broader agenda of inclusive development in Jammu and Kashmir.
The scheme is also seen as a practical measure to enhance safety and convenience, particularly for women reliant on public transport.
This launch comes amid other regional developments, though CM Omar Abdullah urged the public not to link it to unrelated events, such as the recent Kathua encounter or the Home Minister’s visit. Instead, he framed it as a standalone commitment to the people of J&K.
As of today, April 1, 2025, the Free Bus Service for Women is fully operational, with authorities ensuring smooth implementation across all routes. The government has hinted at further expansions to the public transport system, signalling a continued focus on mobility and inclusion in Jammu and Kashmir.