Free bus travel for women on Raksha Bandhan in UP

Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has extended the duration of the free bus travel facility for women in the state on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan. He announced that this free travel service will be available from 6 am on August 27 until midnight on August 29. Female passengers can travel for free, accompanied by one companion, on buses operated by the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation.

The chief minister instructed the transport department, police, administration, and other relevant departments to coordinate efforts and ensure all necessary arrangements are in place to help women return home safely and conveniently for the festival.

To enhance security during the festive season, he directed an increase in patrolling across cities, expressways, highways, and major routes.

The chief minister held a meeting on Sunday at his official residence with officials from departments such as the transport corporation/department, urban development, police, and traffic, in view of Raksha Bandhan, the UP government said in a statement.

He emphasised that this free travel facility should also be implemented in over 900 buses operated by the urban development department for the occasion. Additionally, he instructed that credentials for drivers of private buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis be checked to ensure the safety of female passengers.