10 July, 2025-In a significant move towards empowering women and enhancing public transportation accessibility, the Andhra Pradesh government has announced a groundbreaking initiative that allows women to travel free of cost on Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) buses within their home districts. The scheme, which officially came into effect on July 8, 2025, is expected to benefit lakhs of women across the state.
The “Mahilalaku Muftha Bus Yatra” (Free Bus Travel for Women) scheme was launched as part of the government’s commitment to improving mobility for women and promoting gender equality in public services. According to APSRTC officials, the initiative applies to all services except high-end buses such as AC and super luxury coaches. Women residents of a particular district can now board any non-premium RTC bus within that district without paying a fare.
To avail the benefit, women need to present valid government-issued identification confirming their residence in the district where the bus is operating. Authorities have assured that steps are being taken to simplify the verification process and minimize inconvenience during travel.
Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy described the initiative as a step toward social inclusion and women’s welfare. “This scheme is aimed at removing barriers to education, employment, and healthcare for women by making transport within their districts free and safe,” he said in an official statement.
The state transport department expects the scheme to benefit nearly 1 crore women on a regular basis, especially daily commuters, students, and women working in unorganized sectors. Officials estimate that the program will cost the government approximately ₹1,600 crore annually. However, they emphasized that the social and economic benefits would far outweigh the expenses.
The APSRTC has also directed its staff to be fully cooperative and ensure seamless execution of the scheme. Special awareness drives have been initiated at bus stands, and bus conductors have been instructed on how to identify eligible passengers and handle any discrepancies.
Public response to the scheme has been overwhelmingly positive. Many women have welcomed the decision, saying it will ease their financial burdens and improve safety by reducing the need for alternative, less secure modes of transportation.
While the policy currently applies only to a woman’s home district, several advocacy groups and public representatives are urging the government to expand the scheme across district boundaries and make it statewide. Responding to such appeals, state officials have said that the policy’s impact will be reviewed after three months, and necessary amendments may be considered based on feedback and feasibility.
With this initiative, Andhra Pradesh joins a growing list of Indian states, including Tamil Nadu and Delhi, that have introduced similar free travel schemes for women. The move is expected to influence other states to adopt progressive mobility policies, further reinforcing gender parity in public services.
