Govt invites suggestions on proposed free travel

NEW DELHI: The Delhi government has invited suggestions from people on its proposed scheme to make commute for women in public transport buses and Metro trains free, and asked them to submit the same till June 15.

According to the transport department, people can send their suggestions at delhiwomen safety@gmail.com, besides to the chairman, DDC, Delhi Govt, 33, Shamnath Marg, Delhi-110054. “The government has sought people’s suggestions for its free-ride scheme for women in buses and Metro trains till June 15,” an official said.

On Tuesday, deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia took a bus ride to get feedback from passengers about the proposed free travel scheme. Mr Sisodia said that he did not find “even one citizen” who opposed the idea. The government has said that the move will ensure safety of women in the city.

Earlier on Monday, the Arvind Kejriwal led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government has played a populist move by promising free travel in public transport to women in the national capital.

However, the move by the Delhi government drew mixed response from the people particularly from women, who emphasised that instead of free ridership the government should concentrate on providing security to the women.

Some women activists reacted strongly towards this scheme, and said that there is no connection between women safety and free rides in buses and metros.

Geetanjali, a frequent user of Delhi Metro, said that there is no connection between women safety and free ridership. The Delhi government is just trying to woo the women ahead of the upcoming Delhi Assembly polls.

However, some women welcomed the decision as a landmark move made by the AAP government.

It’s a progressive step and will surely help women especially from economically weeker sections; it is a very welcome step, said Manisha Mehta.