The State Government of West Bengal launched the West Bengal Free Bus Travel Scheme 2026, which is popularly known as the Pink Card Scheme for Women. This schemes provides the The scheme provides free travel for women on state-operated bus services across the state of West Bengal and helps to reduce transportation costs and encourages greater participation in education, employment, healthcare and social activities.
It was introduced on June 1, 2026, and this initiative is expected to benefit the millions of women across urban and rural areas of the state.
Here’s everything you need to know about the West Bengal Free Bus Travel Scheme, which includes the eligibility criteria, benefits, required documents and the application process.
What Is the West Bengal Free Bus Travel Scheme?
The West Bengal Free Bus Travel Scheme is a welfare initiative that is designed to provide free bus transportation to women residing in the state.
Under this scheme, eligible women can travel free of cost on the state government-run and government-managed bus services. To ensure the smooth implementation and transparency, the beneficiaries will be issued a Smart Card, which is also known as a Pink Card, and it will contain their photograph, personal details and a QR code for verification.
The scheme is set to be implemented by the West Bengal Transport Department.
Objectives of the Scheme
The main objective of the initiative is to reduce the financial burden of the daily commuting for women and improve their mobility.
The scheme aims to,
- Increase the women’s participation in education and employment.
- Improve access to healthcare and public services.
- Enhances the social and economic inclusion.
- Reduce transportation expenses for low-income families.
- Promote the safe and affordable public transport for women.
By removing the travel costs, the government hopes to create more opportunities for the women across different sections of society.
Who Can Benefit from the Scheme?
The scheme covers the wide range of female beneficiaries across the state.
Major beneficiary groups includes the,
- Female students
- Working women
- Homemakers
- Senior citizens
- Women from economically weaker sections
- Daily commuters using state-run bus services
The initiative is intended to ensure that women from all backgrounds can access affordable transportation in West Bengal.
West Bengal Free Bus Travel Scheme Eligibility
To avail the benefits under this scheme, applicants must fulfil the following eligibility conditions:
Gender Requirement
- The applicant should be a female.
Residency Requirement
- The applicant must be a permanent resident of West Bengal.
Bus Service Coverage
The free travel facility is available only on the
- State government-operated buses
- Government-managed public bus services
- The scheme does not apply to the privately operated buses.
Benefits of the West Bengal Free Bus Travel Scheme
- Free Travel Across the State
- Coverage of Short and Long Routes
- Financial Savings
- Improved Mobility
- Greater Economic Participation
Smart Card or Pink Card Features
The government will issue the dedicated Smart Card to the eligible beneficiaries for seamless travel.
The card will includes the,
- Beneficiary photograph
- Personal identification details
- Unique QR code
- Verification and authentication features
The Smart Card system is also designed to prevent misuse and ensure transparent delivery of benefits.
Documents Required for the Scheme
Applicants must have to submit valid identity and residency-related documents during the verification process for this scheme.
Accepted documents includes the,
- Voter ID Card (EPIC)
- Ayushman Bharat Health Card
- PAN Card
- Driving Licence
- Indian Passport
- School, College, or University Identity Card
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Other government-approved documents, as specified by authorities
Applicants should ensure that the submitted documents contain accurate and up-to-date information.
How to Apply for the West Bengal Free Bus Travel Scheme?
Currently, applications can only be submitted via the offline mode.
Step 1: Obtain the Application Form
Eligible women need to collect the prescribed application form from the state-designated government offices.
Step 2: Submit the Application
Completed forms must be submitted at the
- Block Development Officer (BDO) Office
- Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) Office
Applicants have to apply within their respective district or the jurisdictional area.
Step 3: Document Verification
After then West Bengal Transport Department will verify the submitted documents and eligibility details.
Step 4: Smart Card Issuance
After the successful verification, eligible applicants will receive their West Bengal Free Travel Smart Card or Pink Card.
Can Women Travel Free Before Receiving the Smart Card?
Yes. The government has also clarified that women can continue to avail free travel benefits on the eligible state-run buses even before receiving their Smart Cards.
Until the Pink card is issued, passengers can show a valid government-approved photo identity document to access the free travel facility.
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