Tamil Nadu Rolls Out Free Government Bus Travel for Disabled Using UDID Card

Tamil Nadu has introduced free travel on government buses for persons with disabilities and one accompanying companion, using their Unique Identification Card (UDID) as proof of eligibility.

Under an order from the state's Welfare of Differently Abled department, those with over 40% disability can now travel without charge on city ordinary, express, low-floor, and deluxe buses, as well as ordinary fare buses in suburban and hilly regions, run by the Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporations. Air-conditioned buses are excluded from the scheme.

The new rule takes effect from October 28. Officials clarified that the existing 75% fare concession available to persons with disabilities will remain unaffected and continue alongside the new free-travel benefit.

Free travel cards issued earlier in the 2026-27 financial year will no longer be valid once the new scheme is implemented. Bus operators have been directed to issue free tickets directly to eligible passengers at the time of travel.

The initiative was first announced during the state budget presented in the Legislative Assembly in August 2026. Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Minister K. Jegadeshwari later expanded its scope to include companions traveling with UDID cardholders.

Disability rights advocates welcomed the move, noting that long-standing demands for fare-free travel using just a UDID card, without needing a separate pass, have now been addressed.