Chandigarh, Oct 24 — For many visually impaired and disabled citizens in Punjab, even a short bus ride can mean independence — a visit to school, a hospital, or a loved one. But for those struggling economically, the fare itself can be a barrier. Now, a renewed decision by the Punjab government has lifted that burden once again.
The government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has released ₹84.26 lakh to continue the free and subsidised bus travel scheme for the disabled. The move, officials say, is not just an administrative decision but an act of compassion — ensuring mobility and dignity for thousands.
“Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, we are dedicated to making the lives of disabled citizens easier, safer, and more self-reliant,” said Dr. Baljit Kaur, Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development. “This is more than assistance — it’s a message that no one in Punjab is alone.”
Under the scheme, visually impaired individuals are provided a 100 percent fare exemption in government buses, while others with at least 40 percent disability receive a 50 percent concession. The government has set aside ₹3.50 crore for 2025–26, of which ₹2.61 crore has already been used. The newly released ₹84.26 lakh ensures that the program continues without interruption.
Dr. Kaur said the department’s efforts go beyond transport benefits. “We are continuously working to empower persons with disabilities through education, employment and social inclusion,” she noted.
The initiative, hailed as a “step towards equality,” has brought visible change across Punjab — from rural villages to urban centers. For many beneficiaries, the scheme is a gateway to independence. “This money is not just numbers — it’s the fuel for thousands of dreams,” an official remarked.
Government sources say that such welfare projects embody the Mann administration’s belief that true governance lies in compassion. “A developed society,” Dr. Kaur said, “is one where every citizen, regardless of ability, can move forward with dignity.”
As the buses continue to roll, so do the hopes of those who once felt confined by physical and financial barriers. In Punjab, the message is clear: service is governance.
