Lucknow – For many women, Raksha Bandhan is a chance to return home, meet their brothers and spend their time with families. With a large number of women expected to travel across Uttar Pradesh for Raksha Bandhan 2026, the state government is taking steps to make the journey safer and more comfortable. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced free bus travel for women and one companion during Raksha Bandhan 2026. With passenger numbers expected to rise, the Uttar Pradesh Transport Department has ordered strict checks on buses, drivers, conductors, taxis and e-rickshaws.
Transport Minister Dayashankar Singh has also directed the officials to ensure that UPSRTC buses are properly maintained and that all road safety rules are followed. Drivers and conductors will also be checked before starting their duty.
Drivers and conductors to undergo verification
Private bus operators have been asked to complete the police and character verification of drivers and conductors who will be deployed during Raksha Bandhan 2026. They will also have to maintain records of these checks. Similar safety measures have been ordered for taxis and e-rickshaws. Only verified and competent drivers will be allowed to operate these vehicles during the festival in UP.
The department has also made it clear that no driver or conductor should report for duty after consuming alcohol or any other intoxicating substance. Mandatory checks must be carried out before they begin work, and violations will invite action.
The Uttar Pradesh Transport Department has directed bus, taxi and other transport operators to strictly follow the permitted passenger capacity. Action will be taken against overloaded buses and vehicles carrying passengers beyond the prescribed limit.
Officials will also monitor vehicle speed and overspeeding during the festival. The UP Transport Department will work with the police and district administration to manage traffic, route diversions and road safety measures and ensure safe travel during Raksha Bandhan in Uttar Pradesh.
Officials have also been told to take action against the vehicles that carry passengers illegally, including goods vehicles and tractor-trolleys. Action will also be taken against overloading and other violations of transport rules.
UPSRTC buses to undergo fitness checks
Before buses are put on the road, officials will check their fitness and technical condition. Any bus found to be defective or unsafe will not be allowed to operate. This is particularly important during this time as more women, children and families are expected to travel. Officials have been asked to remain present in the field and closely monitor transport arrangements during Raksha Bandhan.
Action against loud DJs and illegal vehicle modifications
The Transport Department has also directed officials to take action against high-volume DJ systems and illegal changes to the original structure of vehicles. The department, police and district administration will work together to keep a check on traffic and transport safety during the festival. The focus is to ensure that women travelling home for Raksha Bandhan 2026 can make their journey without unnecessary risks. With free bus travel encouraging more women to travel with their families, the state has asked transport operators and officials to keep safety, vehicle fitness and traffic rules at the centre of the festival arrangements.
