The state government has reported a sharp rise in women bus passengers after implementing a free travel scheme. Transport Minister Mandipalli Ramprasad Reddy shared the details during the Assembly discussion on budget demands. He highlighted subsidies, automation reforms, and welfare measures in the transport sector.
Free Bus Travel for Women Under ‘Stree Shakti’
The free travel scheme for women was launched on August 15, 2025, under the initiative of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. The program, known as Stree Shakti, aims to promote women’s empowerment through improved mobility.
The government provides free travel for women in five categories of buses, including City Ordinary, City Express, Palle Velugu, Ultra Palle Velugu, and Express services.
According to the minister, women have completed 47 crore free journeys so far. The government has borne a subsidy of ₹1,660 crore to support the scheme. As a result, the percentage of women passengers has increased from 40% to 65%. On average, 25 lakh women now travel daily under the program.
Free Travel for Persons with Disabilities
In addition, the Cabinet recently approved free bus travel for persons with disabilities. The minister stated that the decision reflects the government’s commitment to inclusive welfare policies.
Financial Support for Auto Drivers
Under the “Auto Driver Seva” scheme, the government has extended ₹436 crore in financial assistance to 2,90,669 drivers during 2025–26. Authorities are also constructing Institutes of Driving Training and Research (IDTR) in Done (Kurnool district) and Darsi (Prakasam district).
Moreover, the department is establishing an Inspection and Certification (I&C) centre in Visakhapatnam at Gambheeram with an investment of ₹16.50 crore.
Automation and Road Safety Measures
The transport department has introduced modernisation initiatives to improve transparency and safety. Currently, nine Automated Driving Test Tracks (ADTT) operate across the state. Five more tracks will be added under CSR support from Maruti Suzuki.
Additionally, Automated Testing Stations (ATS) function in 18 districts, and the remaining districts will soon receive similar facilities.
Under the AP Electric Mobility Policy 4.0 (2024–29), the government has granted motor vehicle tax exemption for electric vehicles purchased and registered within the state. Officials have also created a dedicated Road Safety Fund to reduce accidents and channel enforcement revenue into safety initiatives.
Special Benefits for Students and New Bus Fleet
The minister further announced that intermediate students can travel free upon showing their hall tickets, following the initiative of Minister Nara Lokesh.
Currently, women avail free travel for free in 75% of RTC buses. Looking ahead, the state will receive 750 new buses under the PM e-Bus service program. Proposals for CNG and electric buses have also been submitted to strengthen eco-friendly public transport.
Overall, the government stated that these measures aim to modernise the transport sector while ensuring social welfare and accessibility.
For the latest updates, click here.
