A New Era of Mobility for Women, Free Bus Travel
Andhra Pradesh is about to witness a historic moment in public transportation and women’s empowerment. On August 15, the state will launch the ‘Stree Shakti’ Scheme, a bold initiative that offers free bus travel to all girls, women, and transgender individuals domiciled in the state. This is not just a welfare program—it’s a vision for freedom, safety, and equal opportunity.
The initiative, a key poll promise of the TDP-led NDA government, is expected to transform lives by boosting education access, employment opportunities, and social participation for women.
1. Who Can Benefit from the ‘Stree Shakti’ Scheme?
The scheme is inclusive and covers girls, women, and transgender persons who are official residents of Andhra Pradesh.
Requirement: A valid identity proof to avail free travel.
Execution: Managed by the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) using its existing fleet.
Expansion Plans: Additional buses will be introduced if demand increases.
This ensures seamless access without bureaucratic delays.
2. Services Covered: Making Daily Travel Easier
Eligible services include:
Pallevelugu
Ultra Pallevelugu
City Ordinary
Metro Express
Express Services
These cover the most commonly used routes for work, study, and market visits in both rural and urban areas.
3. Exclusions to Keep in Mind
While the scheme is generous, it excludes:
Non-stop services
Interstate buses
Chartered services & package tours
Premium services like Saptagiri Express, Ultra Deluxe, Super Luxury, Star Liner, and all AC buses
This focus ensures the government’s budget remains sustainable while benefiting the majority.
4. Safety Comes First
Recognizing that mobility without safety is incomplete, the government is introducing:
CCTV cameras in buses
Body-worn cameras for staff
Improved amenities at bus stations—fans, seating, clean water, and toilets
These measures will not only enhance passenger confidence but also make public transport a trusted choice for women.
5. The Financial Backbone of the Scheme
The government has allocated ₹1,942 crore annually (around ₹162 crore per month) for this initiative.
Beneficiaries will receive zero-fare tickets
APSRTC will be reimbursed directly by the government
This ensures that the transport system stays financially healthy while offering free services.
6. A Step Towards Green Mobility
Looking to the future, the government is considering:
Procuring electric buses
Extending the scheme to them, pending Cabinet approval
This would merge women’s empowerment with environmental sustainability, making Andhra Pradesh a leader in eco-friendly public transport.
7. Why This is More Than Just Free Travel?
Minister K Parthasarathy has emphasized that this scheme is a strategic investment in:
Access to education
Employment opportunities
Social inclusion
By removing travel costs, it opens doors for women to study further, work freely, and participate actively in society. The resulting economic independence and social empowerment can transform communities.
Conclusion: A Model for the Nation
The ‘Stree Shakti’ Scheme is more than a transport subsidy—it’s a symbol of equality and progress. If successful, it could inspire other Indian states to implement similar programs, creating a nationwide movement for women’s empowerment through mobility.
From August 15, thousands of women and transgender individuals in Andhra Pradesh will step onto buses not just as passengers, but as empowered citizens moving towards a brighter future.
