Over 6 Crore Women Benefit from Andhra Pradesh Free Bus Scheme

Andhra Pradesh's 'Stree Shakti' free bus travel initiative has seen significant uptake in its first month, with over 6.4 crore women, girls, and transgender individuals availing themselves of the service. Launched on August 15 by Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu, the scheme allows eligible passengers to travel free of charge on select APSRTC buses, including Palle Velugu, Ultra Palle Velugu, City Ordinary, Express, and Metro Express services. Approximately 75 per cent of the APSRTC fleet is covered under this initiative.

The scheme has led to a notable increase in bus occupancy, with the average occupancy ratio rising to 85 per cent. The proportion of women passengers has increased to 60 per cent, up from less than 40 per cent prior to the scheme’s implementation. This surge in ridership has resulted in a government subsidy of Rs 243 crore for the first month.

While the scheme has been praised for enhancing women's mobility and access to education and employment opportunities, it has also presented challenges. Reports of altercations and seat-related disputes have surfaced, with viral videos showing women arguing on buses and male passengers expressing frustration over seat availability. In response, APSRTC officials are considering deploying additional buses on more than 200 routes to ease congestion and improve service.

The 'Stree Shakti' scheme is part of the government's broader 'Super Six' promises, aiming to empower women and improve their quality of life.