Over 9.26 lakh women benefited from free bus travel on ‘Raksha Bandhan’ in UP, informs UPSRTC
Lucknow, August 28: A large number of passengers took advantage of the free bus travel facility provided by the Yogi government to women and sisters on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan. Over 6.03 lakh women traveled on Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) buses during the free bus travel that began on August 27. Over 3.22 lakh accompanying women also benefited from the free travel. Thus, over 9.26 lakh passengers traveled without fare on the first day.
According to the Transport Corporation, the total cost of this free travel is estimated at over Rs 9.06 crore.
The UPSRTC Principal Manager (Operations) Anil Kumar stated on Friday that the Transport Corporation’s officers and employees are working tirelessly to ensure that women do not face any inconvenience on Rakshabandhan and ensure smooth and safe travel. In accordance with instructions from the government and department heads, additional buses have been deployed as needed to accommodate the increased number of passengers. The Corporation is continuously monitoring bus operations, passenger convenience, and arrangements.
These five regions have so far received the highest number of free service benefits
Moradabad region led the way in terms of the total number of women and their companions on the first day, with 94,789 passengers, including 62,586 women and 32,203 companions, taking advantage of the free service. This was followed by Hardoi with 82,920 passengers, Gorakhpur with 68,152 passengers, Lucknow with 64,590 passengers, and Bareilly with 58,309 passengers. In these five areas alone, a total of approximately 3.69 lakh passengers traveled free of charge.
Passengers praised the government’s initiative
The free travel facility on Rakshabandhan brought joy to both women and their fellow passengers. Passengers said that a large number of people need to travel home during the festival. Therefore, free bus travel has reduced the financial burden on families. Both women and their fellow passengers are appreciating this initiative by the Yogi government. Passengers also said that the operation of additional buses makes it easier to reach home amidst the crowds.
The Transport Corporation is conducting inspections
To ensure that the benefits of free travel reach eligible passengers and the entire process remains transparent, Transport Corporation teams will conduct surprise inspections in various areas. This will monitor the free travel arrangements on buses and also assess the facilities being provided to passengers.
