A remarkable decision has once again taken shape in Punjab’s historic spiritual centers. The Mann government has introduced a transformative initiative that offers pilgrims and residents completely free travel through e rickshaws and mini buses in Anandpur Sahib, Amritsar, and Talwandi Sabo. For the countless devotees who arrive every day to pay their respects at these sacred sites, this move feels like a heartfelt gesture of service. It represents not only a practical reform but also the government’s deep respect for the spiritual importance of these holy cities.
During his visit to the revered city of Sri Anandpur Sahib, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced that free transportation will soon be available in the three cities that the Punjab Assembly recently designated as holy cities: Sri Amritsar Sahib, Sri Anandpur Sahib, and Talwandi Sabo. Under this initiative, the government will operate cost free mini buses and e rickshaws to make local travel smooth and accessible for devotees as well as local residents.
The purpose of this service is to make sure that anyone visiting these sacred cities can reach important religious points and heritage locations without stress or inconvenience. Mann explained that the government’s intention is to make pilgrimages easier, to reduce travel struggles for the elderly and the poor, and to ensure that every visitor experiences dignity and comfort while moving around places of worship.
These three centers of faith already offer numerous services that reflect Sikh values of equality and compassion. With the introduction of free transport, the experience becomes even more accessible. Devotees visiting Anandpur Sahib, Talwandi Sabo, and the Harmandir Sahib complex in Amritsar will find it easier to reach places of prayer, community kitchens, and sarais.
The Guru’s langar continues to serve as the heart of these holy sites. It offers warm, simple meals prepared with love, feeding every visitor who comes seeking peace. Bathing at the sarovar in Amritsar or Talwandi Sabo provides an inner calm that generations of devotees have cherished. Sarais provide neat rooms and clean washrooms at either no cost or at a minimal contribution. The soothing flow of Gurbani, broadcast throughout the day, nurtures the soul of everyone who sits within the sanctum. Facilities such as first aid, ambulance support, and places to safely leave shoes and belongings ensure that everyone can pray without concern.
With the arrival of free local transport, elderly visitors, women, children, and pilgrims traveling from faraway towns will no longer have to worry about reaching the Gurdwara Sahib. The government’s move reflects an understanding of the emotional and spiritual needs of people who come here with devotion in their hearts. More than anything, this decision highlights Punjab’s timeless tradition of seva, equality, and human connection.
Through this initiative, the Mann government has once again demonstrated that governance becomes meaningful when leaders listen carefully to the sentiments of their people and respond with compassion. On Punjab’s sacred soil, this commitment to public service reinforces the message that true progress is built on empathy, accessibility, and respect for faith.
