Lucknow, Aug 26: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday launched the Lokmata Ahilyabai Matrushakti Yatra scheme, providing free travel on eligible state-run buses to women aged 60 years and above across the state.
The scheme was launched in Lucknow with the flagging off of special buses. It is aimed at making public transport more accessible to senior women and helping them travel with greater ease, independence and dignity.
Under the initiative, women aged 60 and above will be able to use eligible state-run bus services without paying the regular fare. The government has also announced a special arrangement for Raksha Bandhan, allowing women to travel free along with one accompanying person.
Named after Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar, the scheme seeks to connect the legacy of public service and social welfare with a practical benefit for senior women.
For many elderly women, transportation costs can be a barrier to travelling for medical appointments, family responsibilities, religious visits and other essential activities. Free bus travel can help reduce this burden and give them greater freedom to make necessary journeys.
The initiative is also expected to benefit families by making it easier for senior women to remain connected with relatives and participate in social and community activities.
The government has positioned the programme as part of its wider efforts to promote women’s welfare, mobility and self-reliance. Better access to public transport can play an important role in ensuring that senior citizens are not unnecessarily restricted by financial or transportation challenges.
The special Raksha Bandhan provision is expected to provide additional convenience during the festival, enabling women and their accompanying family members to travel more easily.
With the launch of the scheme, Uttar Pradesh has placed greater focus on making public transport more inclusive and responsive to the needs of elderly women. The initiative is expected to provide practical support to senior women while strengthening their access to essential services and everyday social life.