Andhra Pradesh to roll out ‘Stree Shakti’ free bus travel scheme for women this Independence Day

With the launch of the scheme, around 2.62 crore women in Andhra Pradesh are expected to benefit.

Women in Andhra Pradesh will be able to travel free of cost on selected Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) buses from August 15, as the TDP-led NDA government launches its much-awaited Stree Shakti scheme. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu will officially inaugurate the initiative at PNBS, Vijayawada, alongside other NDA leaders on Friday, Telangana Today reported.

According to the state government, the scheme is aimed at relieving women from the financial burden of daily travel expenses, fulfilling one of the ‘Super Six’ promises made during the election campaign. It will cover five categories of APSRTC buses across the state, Pallevelugu, Ultra Pallevelugu, City Ordinary, Express, and Metro Express.

The Transport Department and APSRTC have completed all necessary preparations, including developing software to issue zero-fare tickets to women passengers. Around 2.62 crore women in Andhra Pradesh are expected to benefit. Out of the total 11,449 APSRTC buses, nearly 74 per cent will be available for free travel for women, with transgender persons also included under the scheme.

According to government estimates, women in the state travel by bus an average of four times a week, while working women commute daily. This means each woman spends roughly Rs 1,000 to Rs 3,000 per month on travel.

The annual cost of the scheme is projected at Rs 1,942 crore, which will be reimbursed to APSRTC, despite the state’s current financial challenges. On a daily basis, around 26.95 lakh passengers will benefit, with the monthly expenditure estimated at Rs 162 crore.

To avail the facility, passengers must be residents of Andhra Pradesh and carry valid identification, such as a Voter ID, Aadhaar, Ration Card, or Driving License, to present to the bus conductor.

However, the scheme does not apply to Non-Stop, Super Luxury, AC buses, services on ghat roads, or non-stop interstate bus services. Similarly, contract carriage, chartered services, and package tours are excluded.

In the state’s population of 5.25 crore, there are 2.62 crore women. Under this scheme, women, girls, and transgenders belonging to the state will be eligible to travel free of charge.