Uttar Pradesh approves lifetime free bus travel for women aged 60 and older

Women aged 60 and older who live in Uttar Pradesh are set to receive lifetime fare-free travel on buses run by the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation, following approval by the state cabinet. Eligible passengers will be able to travel anywhere within the state by presenting government-issued identification as proof of age.

The transport minister estimated that nearly 10 million women could benefit across a fleet of 14,244 buses. For some older residents, the practical value is more than occasional savings. Women speaking at the launch said fares had sometimes prevented them from visiting relatives or travelling to religious destinations.

The permanent measure expands a benefit that had previously been offered for a limited period around the Raksha Bandhan festival. In 2026, the state also announced free travel for all women on UPSRTC and city buses from 27 to 29 August, while the lifetime provision is specifically for those aged 60 and above.

Alongside the fare scheme, the cabinet approved a Rs 400 crore proposal, equivalent to 4 billion rupees, to purchase 250 electric buses. The fleet investment is separate from the eligibility benefit but will add new vehicles to the state’s public transport network.