Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh – In a major festive gesture, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced free bus travel for women on Raksha Bandhan, offering them a three day window of complimentary rides across the state. The initiative, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, aims to promote women’s safety, empowerment, and ease of travel during the emotionally significant festival that celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters.
According to the official announcement, free bus travel for women on Raksha Bandhan will be available from the morning of August 8 to midnight on August 10, 2025. The scheme covers both UPSRTC (Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation) and city buses, ensuring that women from rural and urban areas can benefit equally.
The Chief Minister has directed transport officials to ensure the smooth and safe operation of buses in sufficient numbers, especially on routes that witness high traffic during the Rakhi period. Additional safety protocols, increased frequency, and special monitoring teams are being deployed to ensure the free service runs seamlessly.
Empowering Women and Upholding Traditions
Raksha Bandhan is more than a festival it’s a social emotion in India. The tradition involves sisters tying a sacred thread (Rakhi) on their brothers’ wrists, seeking their protection and offering prayers for their well being. But for many women, especially in semi urban or rural regions, travel costs and accessibility become barriers to observing this age old tradition.
This year, the free bus travel for women on Raksha Bandhan initiative not only removes that barrier but sends a strong message about the government’s commitment to women centric policies. It also ensures that no sister is left behind due to financial or logistical constraints.
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A Step Toward Safer and Inclusive Transit
Officials have been instructed to increase the number of women centric bus services, with many buses expected to be equipped with GPS tracking and marshals to ensure security. Feedback from past years showed a high demand for safe travel options for women during festivals, and this move addresses those concerns head on.
In a state where public transport plays a vital role in everyday life, especially for women, this initiative stands as a model of inclusive governance.
For residents of Uttar Pradesh, this announcement brings not just relief, but joy, anticipation, and empowerment perfectly in line with the spirit of Raksha Bandhan.
Such a good initiative by Uttar Pradesh Government for Women for auspicious Rakshabandhan.
